Dallas plays host to the first semi-final of the 2026 World Cup, as two time champions France aim to reach a third final in a row; but standing in their way are 2010 winners and reigning European champions Spain, with kickoff in a monumental clash tonight at 8pm. France come into tonight’s fixture with wins in every single one of their fixtures, they’ve defeated Senegal, Iraq, Norway, Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco to make it this far, while the Spanish have won every match bar one; wins against Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, Austria, Portugal and Belgium offset by one singular blemish, the drab 0-0 draw against the Cape Verde side that captured the attention of the watching world. The main battle tonight is not one player taking on another, but perhaps it’ll be system V system, France’s attacking, no holds barred style of play will go up against Spain’s more reserved, defensive tactics, all of which should make for riveting viewing when the referee blows his whistle for the first time tonight. It’ll also be interesting to see how the two star players of each side perform, and so far this tournament, there has been a significant gulf in quality between Kylian Mbappe and teenager Lamine Yamal. Mbappe has netted eight times in six matches, assisting three goals, while Yamal’s numbers read significantly lower; one goal in six, no assists. Granted, they play different roles, but Luis de la Fuente and Yamal would’ve been hoping that Yamal would have had more of an impact at this point.
Someone who has had an impact for Spain, at least in their last two games is Arsenal’s Mikel Merino, who’s scored two late winners to prevent extra-time against both Portugal and Belgium. De la Fuente seems keen on bringing him on as an impact substitution, with his preferred midfield pairing of Fabian Ruiz and Rodri unlikely to change tonight. Rodri runs the Spanish midfield, taking 118 touches in Spain’s last eight tie, and if France want to unlock the Spanish defence, they first have to take out the Manchester City man, who shows no signs of slowing whatsoever. The other semi-final between England and Argentina tomorrow night seems like there will be drama on and off the field, with the tie between the best of enemies labelled as the highest risk match of the tournament by the FBI. Increased security is expected for the game in Atlanta, as Argentina look to make their third final in four, and England look to make their first World Cup final since 1966. Attention will be on Declan Rice, who has been cleared to play tomorrow night’s fixture after fighting a stomach bug last week, which limited him to 45 minutes in England’s 2-1 win against Norway. His influence will be vital in trying to stop Argentina from breaking through a mixed English defence, who seem fantastic at one moment, and volatile the next.
All eyes will be on Atlanta tomorrow, but they’re on Dallas tonight; falling at this stage is heart-breaking, but winning on this stage invites you to the most prestigious game in football; the FIFA World Cup Final in New Jersey this Sunday.
Luke Watson brings you our World cup diary
