FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain ‘favourites’ says Deschamps ahead of semi-final showdown
France coach Didier Deschamps has labeled Spain as the favorites ahead of their upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final match. Both coaches downplayed the pressure of the 'favorite' label, emphasizing the high quality of both national teams.
Why it matters
This match represents a high-stakes encounter between two top-tier international football teams in a major global sporting event.
France coach Didier Deschamps insisted he still sees Spain as World Cup favourites on Monday (July 13, 2026) ahead of Les Bleus' blockbuster semi-final against the European champions.
France take on Spain at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday (July 14, 2026) in a match widely seen as a collision of the best two teams in the tournament.
While Deschamps' side have lit up the World Cup with a string of scintillating performances, Spain's campaign has built momentum gradually following a shock 0-0 draw against minnows Cape Verde in their opening game.
Deschamps, though, maintains that France — beaten by Spain in their last two meetings — will be the underdog on Tuesday (July 14).
"Forget about the first game against Cape Verde," Deschamps said of Spain's campaign. "Ever since then Spain have confirmed that they are the favourites.
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