France coach Didier Deschamps calls Spain the favourites ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final and confirms Kylian Mbappe is fit to play.
Didier Deschamps, head coach of France, attends a press conference ahead of the semi-final match between France and Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Dallas, the United States, on July 13, 2026. (Xinhua via IANS)
France head coach Didier Deschamps has labelled Spain as the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026 ahead of the blockbuster semi-final between the two European heavyweights, while also confirming that captain Kylian Mbappe is fit for the clash.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Monday, Deschamps praised Spain’s form since their opening-game draw against Cabo Verde and said the reigning European champions have emerged as the team to beat.
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“Forget about their match against Cabo Verde,” Deschamps said. “Since then, they have shown they are the favourites to win the World Cup.
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“Spain are capable of playing outstanding attacking football while remaining very solid defensively. They have conceded just one goal in their last six matches.”
The France coach also eased concerns over Mbappe’s fitness after the skipper picked up an ankle injury during the quarter-final victory over Morocco and was substituted in the second half.
“He trained today,” Deschamps said, confirming the Real Madrid forward is available for the semi-final.
France also received another boost with midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni returning to contention after missing the last two matches through injury.
Spain have beaten France in the semi-finals of both UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League, but Deschamps believes those results will have little bearing on Tuesday’s encounter.
“There are no particular lessons to draw from those matches,” he said.
“The squads have changed, and the players are not necessarily at the same stage of their development or in the same form as they were then.”
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente dismissed Deschamps’ suggestion that his side are favourites to lift the trophy, insisting outside opinions will have no impact on his team’s mindset.
“I’ve said from the very beginning that whether people regard us as favourites is irrelevant,” De la Fuente said.
“It has no real meaning and certainly won’t determine the outcome. Outside expectations don’t create any extra pressure for us.”
The Spain boss acknowledged the quality within the French squad but backed his side to impose their style of play.
“We have analysed France in great detail. We’ve faced each other many times and know each other very well.
“They have world-class players, and so do we. We will fight to win the duels, take the initiative and stay true to our football.”
Monday also marked the 19th birthday of Spain sensation Lamine Yamal, with De la Fuente urging the teenage winger to enjoy the occasion and play without pressure.
“I believe his moment will come,” the Spain coach said. “Hopefully, it will be tomorrow. If not, then hopefully in the final.”
Yamal described the semi-final as the biggest match of his career so far and admitted there could be no better birthday celebration than helping Spain reach the World Cup final.
“The best birthday present would be winning tomorrow,” he said.
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