Former French defender Luis Fernandez has thrown his weight behind France to lift the FIFA World Cup 2026 title, but acknowledged that a Spain triumph would not leave him heartbroken — a sentiment shaped by his unique dual identity as someone born in southern Spain and raised in France. The France vs Spain semi-final is scheduled at Dallas Stadium on Wednesday, 14 July.

A Clash With History

The two European heavyweights are meeting in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup for only the second time. Their previous encounter at this stage came in the 2006 round of 16, where Les Bleus prevailed 3-1. That historical context adds an extra layer of significance to Wednesday's semi-final, with both nations arriving in strong form and harbouring genuine title ambitions.

The 66-year-old Fernandez, who built his reputation as a combative and intelligent midfielder during his playing days with France, told FIFA that his connection to both nations gives him a perspective few pundits can claim. 'I've always had a soft spot for Spain. I love Spanish football, especially the tradition they've had in midfield,' he said.

What Fernandez Said About Spain and France

Fernandez was generous in his praise for Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, crediting him with assembling a cohesive unit that claimed the UEFA Euro 2024 title. 'I'm also a big fan of the job Luis de la Fuente has done because he's built a top team that became European champions two years ago. Spain have always had a distinctive identity, with the likes of Sergio Busquets, Xavi and Andres Iniesta,' he said.

Despite his admiration for the Spanish side, Fernandez was unambiguous about his primary allegiance. 'I'm backing France to win the World Cup, but if Spain were to knock them out and go on to become champions, I'd be happy for them too,' he said. He also singled out England as an impressive side at this tournament.

Mbappe vs Yamal: The Subplot Within the Semi-final

The France-Spain clash carries a compelling individual subplot: Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal will face each other for the 11th time in their careers, and notably for the second time in a semi-final at international level. At UEFA Euro 2024 in Munich, Spain beat France 2-1, with Yamal scoring. The two sides met again in the UEFA Nations League semi-final in Stuttgart, where Spain triumphed in a nine-goal thriller — Yamal netted a brace and Mbappe also got on the scoresheet.

Fernandez gave the edge to the French captain at this moment in time. 'Right now, I'd say Mbappe has the edge. He's in great form, full of confidence and showing real leadership through his performances and the work he puts in for his team-mates,' he said. He tempered that assessment with a note of caution about Yamal: 'Yamal is still getting back to his best and I think he's got a lot more to offer.'

Mbappe's Redemption Arc

Fernandez framed the tournament as a potential turning point for Mbappe, who endured two difficult seasons at Real Madrid before arriving at this World Cup in sharp form. 'Mbappe, on the other hand, is riding the crest of a wave, and he now has the chance to lead France to another world title. After two tough seasons with Real Madrid, this competition could mark the start of a new chapter for him, crowned with a major success,' he said.

With the semi-final set for Wednesday, all eyes will be on whether Mbappe's resurgence or Yamal's flair — and the collective strength of their respective teams — proves decisive in what promises to be one of the tournament's defining matches.