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| Spain's creative strength will be tested by France's handbrake, and the semifinal clash will bring lots of drama. (Photo credit: GOAL) |
It’s crunch time at the ongoing 2024 Euro Championship. The semifinal clash at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena will feature 2008 and 2012 winners Spain and Le Bleus, who last won the tournament two years after winning the World Cup on home soil in 1998.
Spain's 100% record was threatened by the tournament hosts at the quarter-final stage, as the Germans dragged the game to the last minute of extra time before Mikel Merino rose the highest to head home the winner.
La Roja lost the game in normal time for the first time in the tournament, but they know they still have work to do. France is waiting; it will be their biggest test yet as they prepare for another Euro triumph.
France has underperformed for the entirety of the tournament; the Blues have only scored one goal of their own, and it was a penalty by Kylian Mbappe. The other two goals were scored by opposing players, leaving them at the bottom of the xG table.
The 2018 World Cup winners have quality materials at their disposal; they’re arguably the most experienced side in the tournament, but they have refused to ditch the handbrake. For France, Spain is going to be a different ball game, and neutrals should enjoy every bit of it.
How will France approach this? You can be confident that the structure will remain the same, but the extent of Le Blues' progress from their own half will depend on Spain's setup. It might be frustrating for anyone expecting electrifying football from Didier Deschamps.
For Spain, you’ll be certain to get entertainment from Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. The midfield battle will be key, but France will make it cagey as they seek to hit La Roja on the break. Spain must be ready.
La Roja will be without Pedri after he left the stadium injured against Germany; Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand will both miss the game due to suspensions. We expect Dani Olmo to replace Pedri, with Nacho assuming the defensive role.
France remains the favourite based on experience and pedigree, but Spain’s exciting talents will trouble Le Bleus. Mbappe must work hard to prove he’s not a spent force; this is the game where he must show his Balon d’Or credentials.