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Official line-ups: France and Spain with known battle plan
Teams 16 July 2026

Official line-ups: France and Spain with known battle plan

Aurélien Tchouaméni will start in the starting line-up for France during the 2026 World Cup semi-final against Spain. National coach De la Fuente chooses the unchanged team that defeated Belgium. Kickoff will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Official line-ups: France and Spain with known battle plan in

According to Tuttomercatoweb.

Background

Aurélien Tchouaméni, a promising midfielder, has proven himself as a key player for France in recent years. His role in the semi-final against Spain is crucial, especially given the strong competition in midfield. With the pressure of the 2026 World Cup on his shoulders, Tchouaméni will have to show his skills to lead France to the final.

Why this matters

The 2026 World Cup semi-final between France and Spain is a crucial moment for both teams as they battle for a place in the final. Aurélien Tchouaméni's return to the starting line-up strengthens the French midfield, which could be essential against the strong Spanish line-up. This match promises not only an exciting match, but also an opportunity for Tchouaméni to prove his worth to France on the world stage.

Key points

  • Official line-ups: France and Spain with known battle plan.
  • Aurélien Tchouaméni will start in the starting line-up for France during the 2026 World Cup semi-final against Spain.
  • Aurélien Tchouaméni remains central to Francia's plans.

The 2026 World Cup semi-final between France and Spain pits two of Europe's powerhouses against each other at the iconic AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The cracker starts at 9:00 PM (Dutch time), and the tension is palpable among both players and fans worldwide.

For France, national coach Didier Deschamps opts for a minimal change compared to the match against Morocco. Aurélien Tchouaméni returns to the starting line-up and fills the gap in midfield, leaving Manu Kone on the bench. Furthermore, all names are familiar: Maignan defends the French goal, Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba and Digne form the rearguard. In addition to Tchouaméni, there is also Rabiot in midfield. Up front we find Dembélé, Olise, Barcola and star player Mbappé.

The French bank offers several strong options, including Risser, Samba, Akliouche, Cherki, Gusto, the Hernandez brothers, Kante, Konate, Kone, Lacroix, Mateta, Thuram and Zaire-Emery. With this solid base and bench occupancy, France hopes to reach a final again, just like four years ago.

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On the Spanish side, national coach Luis de la Fuente again chooses the team that impressed against Belgium. This means that Unai Simon defends the goal, supported by Pedro Porro, Cubarsì, Laporte and Cucurella in the backline. The midfield consists of Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, while the attack remains varied and energetic with Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena and Oyazarbal in the centre.

The Spanish reserves consist of names such as Joan Garcia, Raya, Eric Garcia, Gavi, Grimaldo, Borja Iglesias, Llorente, Mikel Merino, Munoz, Pedri, Yeremi Pino, Pubill, Ferran Torres, Nico Williams and Zubimendi, with which De la Fuente also has sufficient alternatives at hand.

The match will be officiated by referee Ivan Barton from El Salvador. Include both selectionsplenty of international top talent with experience in the largest European competitions. The poster promises spectacle and a tactically high-level battle, where a place in the World Cup final is at stake.

Winning is crucial for both France and Spain: France are chasing another global title after their previous success, while Spain is dreaming of a follow-up to their 2010 peak. The stakes are maximum, the eyes of the football world are focused on Arlington.

What's happening now

After this semi-final, the winner will prepare for the 2026 World Cup final, where they will have the chance to win the prestigious trophy. For France, the aim is to repeat the successes of the past and win the world title again. Meanwhile, Spain will be hoping for a win to confirm their status as one of the top clubs in the 2026 Football World Cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup?

France and Spain faced off in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Who confirmed the lineups for the semi-final?

The line-ups were confirmed by national coaches Didier Deschamps for France and Luis de la Fuente for Spain.

Why these changes in the lineups now?

France made a minimal change by bringing Aurélien Tchouaméni back into the starting line-up to strengthen the midfield.

What changes are there in the French team compared to the previous match?

The only change in the French team is the return of Aurélien Tchouaméni to the starting line-up, while Manu Kone starts on the bench.

What are the strong options on the bench for France?

The French bank offers strong options such as Risser, Samba, Akliouche, Cherki, Gusto, the Hernandez brothers, Kante, Konate, Kone, Lacroix, Mateta, Thuram and Zaire-Emery.

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