Spain and France are set to face off in what promises to be a clash of the titans in the Euro 2024 semi-finals on Tuesday, July 9.
With an impeccable record leading up to this point, La Roja secured their spot in Munich by defeating hosts Germany in the quarterfinal round.
A goal by Dani Olmo and a late header by Mikel Merino sealed the win for Luis de la Fuente’s squad, despite Florian Wirtz’s dramatic equalizer in normal time.
This win further solidified Spain’s position as favorites in the European Championship, but it came with possible consequences for the team following their injury list.
The Spaniards have progressed from four of five semi-finals but lost on penalties to eventual winners Italy at this stage at Euro 2020.
On the other hand, Les Bleus came through a penalty shootout to send Portugal home later the same day, after an arduous goalless draw through 120 minutes.
Meanwhile, France will be looking to reach their fourth Euros final, having done so in 1984, 2000, and 2016.
Spain vs France Team news
Euro 2024 favorites Spain opted to keep their starting lineup unchanged for their match against Germany.
Despite some injury concerns, both Nacho Fernandez and Ayoze Perez were deemed fit enough to make a return to the bench.
Unfortunately, their luck took a turn for the worse heading into the semi-final, as Pedri suffered a serious injury early on in the match against Germany.
With key players like Dani Carvajal, Robin Le Normand, and captain Alvaro Morata also missing due to suspension or injury, Spain will have to rely on the likes of Olmo to step up and deliver once again.
Meanwhile, Deschamps’ preferred player, Rabiot, is set to return from suspension on Tuesday and is likely to start for the team, ensuring that they are at full strength, unlike Spain.
Although Kylian Mbappe was substituted during extra-time due to a blow to his broken nose, he is expected to be available for the semi-final.
This is great news for France as they head into their crucial semi-final match with their key players fully fit.
Spain vs France head-to-head
These two teams have a history of facing each other at major tournaments, and Tuesday’s semi-finals will mark their sixth meeting.
France has won three out of the first four encounters, including victories in the Euro 1984 final, the 2000 quarter-final, and the 2006 World Cup round of 16.
Meanwhile, Spain claimed victory in their most recent clash, a 2-0 win in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012, while their other meeting ended in a 1-1 draw during the group stage of the 1996 UEFA tournament.
Spain vs France possible starting lineup
Spain: Simon: Navas, Nacho, Laporte, Cucurella; Olmo, Rodri, Ruiz: Yamal, Morata, Williams
France: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Rabiot; Griezmann; Kolo Muani, Mbappe
Date and kick-off time
Spain vs France is scheduled for an 8 pm BST kick-off on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
Venue
The match will take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
Match Prediction
Spain appeared to be the most dominant team at the Euro 2024, but they began to show signs of fatigue and disorganization as they entered the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, France have been solid in defense, but their attack has been unimpressive as they seem to be struggling to find a way to ignite their attacking potential.
Our prediction is a 0-0 draw in regulation time, with Spain ultimately winning in the penalty shootout.
