France eye another final as Spain return to the last four
France and Spain meet tonight in a World Cup semi-final that pitches the reigning European heavyweights against one another with a place in Sunday’s final on the line. The match kicks off at 8pm BST on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, at Dallas Stadium, and will be shown free-to-air in the UK.
Didier Deschamps’ side have reached a third consecutive World Cup semi-final and are aiming to progress to a third successive final. Spain arrive at this stage for the first time since their title-winning run in 2010, underlining the scale of the occasion for La Roja as they face their most formidable opponents of the tournament so far.
How to watch in the UK
For British viewers, the game will be broadcast live on ITV1, with build-up from 7pm BST. A live stream is available via the ITVX app and website. Highlights can be found on FIFA’s official YouTube channel and on ITVX after the final whistle.
| Event | Time (BST) | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-match coverage | 7:00pm | ITV1 / ITVX |
| Kick-off | 8:00pm | ITV1 / ITVX |
| Highlights | Post-match | FIFA YouTube, ITVX |
Team updates: Mbappé expected to feature
France’s preparations have been shaped by fitness checks following their quarter-final win over Morocco. Kylian Mbappé, joint-top scorer at this tournament, went off in the second half with a minor ankle issue but is anticipated to play. At full-time he described himself as:
"completely fine"
Midfielder Manu Koné was also substituted as a precaution due to a knee concern and is expected to be available. Aurélien Tchouaméni missed the Morocco match with a thigh problem but has since returned to full training with the squad.
In defence, William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano did not take part in a weekend group session; Saliba was understood to be resting, while Upamecano trained separately indoors. Neither absence is believed to indicate a significant injury.
In attack, Désiré Doué is likely to continue alongside Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, with Deschamps alternating on the left between Doué and his Paris Saint‑Germain team-mate Bradley Barcola throughout the competition.
Why this semi-final matters
For France, another victory would underscore a period of rare continuity and competitive edge, maintaining a grip on the latter stages of global tournaments. Spain, back in the semi-finals after a long absence from this phase, are looking to translate their resurgence into a return to the sport’s biggest stage. The combination presents a compelling contrast: a side accustomed to deep runs against a team trying to reassert itself at the summit of international football.
For viewers in Britain, the significance is twofold. First, the match is freely accessible on terrestrial television at peak time, ensuring a nationwide audience. Second, with one of Europe’s traditional powers guaranteed to reach the final, the outcome will help set the tone for the tournament’s climax, with form, fitness and tactical choices on display that will frame the story of the decisive match this weekend.
What to watch for
- The condition and influence of Mbappé after his minor ankle sprain.
- Midfield balance if Tchouaméni returns, and whether Koné starts.
- Deschamps’ choice between Doué and Barcola on the left flank.
- Defensive selections involving Saliba and Upamecano after limited weekend involvement.
With both squads close to full strength and the broadcast free to air, tonight’s semi-final offers British audiences a clear window onto a fixture rich in pedigree and consequence. The winner will head into Sunday’s final with momentum; the loser will be left to contemplate a near miss at the penultimate hurdle.
