World Cup: Spain Name Unchanged XI for Semi-final Against France

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has retained the same starting line-up that defeated Belgium in the quarter-finals for Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final clash against France.

The Spanish manager has kept faith with the side that secured a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles, opting for continuity as La Roja bid to reach the World Cup final.

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz once again starts alongside Rodri in central midfield, with Barcelona’s Pedri remaining on the bench after missing out on the starting role.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal keeps his place on the right wing, while Atletico Madrid’s Alex Baena operates from the left. Dani Olmo will play in the attacking midfield role behind lone striker Mikel Oyarzabal.

The unchanged selection reflects De la Fuente’s confidence in a team that has impressed throughout the tournament with its disciplined defensive displays and possession-based style of football.

Spain are aiming to return to the World Cup final for the first time since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.

France, meanwhile, are expected to make a slight adjustment to their own starting line-up, with reports indicating that Bradley Barcola will start on the left wing ahead of his Paris Saint-Germain teammate, Desire Doue.

According to sources close to the French camp, coach Didier Deschamps has opted for Barcola because of his pace and ability to track back defensively against Yamal, who has been one of the standout performers of the tournament.

The 23-year-old winger is expected to play a key role in limiting the influence of the Barcelona star while also providing France with a direct attacking outlet.

The semi-final promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with both European giants seeking a place in Sunday’s final.

France are chasing a third World Cup title after previous triumphs in 1998 and 2018, while Spain are hoping to add a second global crown to their 2010 success.

The encounter is also expected to feature an intriguing battle between two of football’s brightest stars, with Yamal set to face Kylian Mbappé in a contest that could define the outcome of the match.