Deschamps promises a 'spectacular' semi-final — and the World Cup has reached the moment football has been waiting for
Deschamps guarantees a 'spectacular' clash against Spain in Dallas. In Atlanta, Kane and Rice are ready to face Argentina. The semi-finals are here.
Didier Deschamps is not one for hyperbole. But when the France manager promises that the clash against Spain will be "spectacular", it is worth believing — because every ingredient is already in place.
Mbappé against Lamine Yamal. Dallas as the stage. A place in the World Cup final on the line.
Deschamps acknowledges that Spain arrive as favourites — "they have conceded only one goal in six games", the manager said, according to BBC Sport. But he also made clear that history carries no weight: "the past is in the past", he stated, noting that Spain had eliminated France in both the Euro 2024 semi-final and a Nations League semi-final. "We are at a different level now. We want to be in the final."
A victory would make France only the third country in history to reach three consecutive World Cup finals — a feat previously achieved only by West Germany and Brazil.
Meanwhile, in Atlanta, the tension is of a different kind. England and Argentina meet again in the semi-finals — one of the most history-laden fixtures in world football. Harry Kane confirmed the squad is "completely united", and Declan Rice, whose availability had been in doubt, is confirmed to play, according to Sky Sports News.
Atlanta authorities announced reinforced policing for the match, with increased numbers both inside and outside the stadium.
Golmetria's model places Spain as the biggest favourites for the title, with a 35.13% chance — well ahead of Argentina at 23.61%. France stand at 13.51% and England at 15.32%.
Two semi-finals. Four giants. No margin for error.
Football stops for the next 48 hours — and the question is simple: who are you watching first?