France vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 Semifinal Match Begins

Kathmandu. In the first exciting semifinal match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, a clash between two football powerhouses, France and Spain, has begun. This match, which started at 12:45 AM Wednesday morning at Dallas Stadium in America, is being seen as a battle between 'invincible attack' and 'impenetrable defense'.

All eyes are on French captain Kylian Mbappe and Spain's young sensation Lamine Yamal in today's match. Mbappe has broken former goalkeeper Hugo Lloris's record by playing his 21st World Cup match for France today. Interesting thing is, France has not lost any of the 18 World Cup matches Mbappe has played in the starting eleven.

On the other hand, the responsibility of taking Spain to the final rests on 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente has fielded Yamal, keeping experienced Pedri on the bench.

France has scored 16 goals so far in this World Cup, which is the second highest after Argentina. Michael Olise of France is in excellent form, having provided 5 assists. He needs only one more assist to equal Pele's record of 6 assists.

Meanwhile, Spain's defense has been the best in this competition. Spain has conceded only 1 goal in 6 matches. This clash between Spain, excellent in defensive tactics, and France, dangerous in counter-attacks, is expected to be very tough.

Today is also France's national day, 'Bastille Day'. According to French media, fireworks programs in many cities of France have been postponed until after the match. French supporters appear confident that their team will reach the World Cup final for the third consecutive time.

Due to the possibility of thunderstorms in Dallas, the stadium roof has been closed. Although it is hot outside, the temperature inside the stadium is said to be very low due to the air-conditioned व्यवस्था.

The winner today will face either England or Argentina in the final.