CORNERFLICK
Didier Deschamps has labelled Spain the main contenders ahead of France's World Cup semi-final, despite his side arriving with six straight wins and 16 goals scored.
France face Spain on Tuesday night in one of the biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup, with both teams widely viewed as among the strongest left in the tournament. The game has already taken on an edge before kick-off, with Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal among the key names drawing attention.
Deschamps said Spain deserve the burden of expectation because they are the reigning European champions and have backed up that status with their results. France beat Spain in the Nations League semi-finals last summer, but the France coach pointed to Spain's run and overall strength when discussing the tie.
The numbers support the warning. Spain remain unbeaten in the tournament and have conceded only once, while France have not conceded in the knockout rounds.
Mbappé, who has eight goals and shares the lead in the Golden Boot race with Lionel Messi, can move clear at the top if he scores against Spain. The winners will meet either Argentina or England in the final.