France and Spain are all set to open this year’s World Cup semi-final stage in Dallas, marking only the second time these two European giants have faced each other in the history of the tournament.

Spain, known as La Roja, have been remarkably solid in defence, conceding just a single goal so far in the competition. That lone strike came in their quarter-final clash against Belgium, when Charles De Ketelaere found the net late in the first half. Despite their defensive discipline, Spain have scored only 11 goals throughout the tournament — fewer than many anticipated, considering their attacking talent and trademark fluid style of play.

France, meanwhile, have been equally formidable at the back, letting in just two goals — albeit against relatively weaker opponents — while netting 16 times overall. Kylian Mbappé continues to dominate the scoring charts with eight goals to his name, while the remaining eight have been shared among Ousmane Dembélé (5), Bradley Barcola (2) and Desiré Doué (1).

Didier Deschamps’ side are aiming to become only the third nation in World Cup history to reach three consecutive finals, joining the ranks of West Germany (1982, 1986 & 1990) and Brazil (1994, 1998 & 2002). If they succeed, Mbappé could make history as the first player ever to score in three successive finals, having already found the net against Croatia in 2018 and Argentina in 2022. He would also join Cafu as just the second footballer to appear in three consecutive finals.

For Spain, a win would mark their first World Cup final appearance since their triumphant campaign in 2010 — the only time they have reached that stage before. With England competing in the other semi-final, there is a possibility of a repeat of the Euro 2024 final, when Spain prevailed 2-1.

Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated encounter, Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the media: “I tell the players that we need to enjoy ourselves; we’re in a situation that might never happen again. We must remain true to who we are, stay aware of our opponent’s strengths, and truly believe that we can make it through. We’ll give everything we have to reach the final.”

The match is scheduled to kick off at 8pm BST and will be televised live on ITV.