France v Spain: World Cup 2026 semi-final - live
Key Points:
- France and Spain are competing in a highly anticipated World Cup semi-final, with France wearing blue and Spain in white, reflecting their status as pre-tournament favorites and reigning European champions respectively.
- Spain took the lead with a penalty scored by Mikel Oyarzabal in the 22nd minute after a foul by France's Lucas Digne, marking the first time France have trailed in this World Cup.
- France have faced disciplinary challenges, including a yellow card for Rabiot and an injury to Saliba who was substituted off, which has affected their defensive stability.
- Key moments for France included near chances by Mbappe and Barcola, but Spain's goalkeeper Simon made crucial saves, and VAR decisions have influenced the flow of the game, notably overturning a free kick awarded to France.
- The match has been tense and tactical, with both teams showing bursts of attacking play but also defensive resilience, setting up a potentially decisive second half in this closely contested semi-final.