
Mbappé: France's pressing error against Spain proved costly
Kylian Mbappé said France's pressing was flawed from the start against Spain, noting they pressed 3 against 2 and must press man for man against such opponents.
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Kylian Mbappé said France's pressing was flawed from the start against Spain, noting they pressed 3 against 2 and must press man for man against such opponents.

Spain defeated France 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup semi-final in Dallas, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro securing their place in the final.

Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot to give Spain the lead against France in their semi-final after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal.

Pedro Porro scored to double Spain's lead against France in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, following a one-two with Dani Olmo.

As the World Cup reaches the semi-finals, France, Spain, Argentina and England vie for glory. Journalists and fans from each nation share their predictions, with France seen as the team to beat despite England's hopes and Spain's tactical prowess.

Relive every goal Spain have scored on their way to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, where they will face France at Dallas Stadium.

Watch every goal scored by France on their way to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, where they will face Spain.

France coach Didier Deschamps predicts a 'spectacular' World Cup semi-final against Spain on Tuesday. Spain beat France in Euro 2024 and Nations League semi-finals, but Deschamps says the past is in the past. France aim for a third straight World Cup final appearance.

Luis Fernandez, born in Spain but raised in France, shares his unique perspective on the World Cup semi-final between the two nations. He backs France to win but admits a soft spot for Spain, praising both teams' midfield talent and leadership.

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí says he is not afraid of Kylian Mbappé but acknowledges the forward's ability to change a game instantly. He compares Mbappé to Lamine Yamal, stressing the need for 90 minutes of alertness.

A statistical comparison of Argentina, England, France and Spain ahead of the World Cup semi-finals. France lead in attack, Spain in defense, while Argentina are most clinical and England excel in aerial play.

Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year contract after leaving Barcelona. The 31-year-old won 27 trophies with Barcelona and returns to the WSL alongside former teammate Alexia Putellas.

BBC Sport expert Chris Sutton predicts France will beat Spain and England will overcome Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. Sutton, AI, and users have predicted 104 games, with users leading at 72% accuracy.

England have travelled more than 14,000 miles to reach the World Cup semi-finals, seven times further than France. The tournament, staged across three countries and 16 cities, has forced teams to cover unprecedented distances. Experts question how travel affects performance.

In the 2006 World Cup, France faced Spain in the round of 16. France, considered too old by some, defeated the up-and-coming Spanish team.

With Spain, France, Argentina, and England in the World Cup semi-finals, fans can pick a combined XI from stars like Messi, Mbappe, Yamal, and Kane. BBC Sport offers its selection and invites readers to do better.

The World Cup semi-finals feature France vs Spain and England vs Argentina. Kylian Mbappe leads France against Spain's Lamine Yamal, while Lionel Messi faces England's Jude Bellingham in a rivalry renewed.

For the first time, the top four teams in FIFA's world rankings have all reached the World Cup semi-finals. Spain, Argentina, France, and England each won their groups and were placed in separate quadrants of the draw, a change FIFA made for the 2026 expanded tournament to ensure competitive balance.

Spain defeated Belgium in Los Angeles to reach a World Cup semi-final against France. Analysts discuss Spain's resilience, Lamine Yamal's form, and England's upcoming quarter-final against Norway featuring Harry Kane vs Erling Haaland.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente says France are as worried as Spain ahead of their match, recalling two consecutive wins over Les Bleus.