Deschamps on France’s World Cup semifinal: ‘We won’t settle for just being in the final four’

On the eve of France’s World Cup semifinal against Spain, manager Didier Deschamps made clear that his side’s ambition extends far beyond Tuesday’s clash at AT&T Stadium.

“July 14 is a symbolic day for France and the French,” Deschamps said, referencing the date that marks Bastille Day, France’s national holiday. “We will do everything to make this evening go very well for us. We’re not going to settle for just being in the final four.”

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A Rivalry Renewed

France and Spain meet in the World Cup semifinals for the first time, though they have become frequent knockout-stage adversaries. Spain eliminated France in the Euro 2024 semifinals (2-1) and again in the 2025 Nations League semifinals (5-4).

Deschamps has consistently shifted pressure onto Spain, calling the reigning European champions the favorites. “We know Spain very well. Before the World Cup people considered us favorites, but the favorite is Spain,” he told Movistar.

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France’s Semifinal Pedigree

This is France’s eighth World Cup semifinal, equaling Brazil’s record. After losing their first three (1958, 1982, 1986), they have won four consecutive semifinals (1998, 2006, 2018, 2022). A victory would make them only the second European nation to reach three straight World Cup finals.

France arrived in Dallas unbeaten, having won all six matches in 90 minutes. They are the tournament’s highest-scoring side with 16 goals, led by Kylian Mbappé’s eight goals. Michael Olise leads all players with five assists.

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Spain’s Historic Run

Spain enter on a 36-match unbeaten streak, their longest ever, having won 27 and drawn nine since March 2024. They have conceded just one goal in six World Cup matches — a 650-minute shutout streak that was the longest in tournament history. This is only their second World Cup semifinal; they won their only previous appearance in 2010 en route to the title.

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Deschamps’ Final Tournament

This World Cup is Deschamps’ last as France manager after taking charge in 2012. He has appeared remarkably relaxed. “We feel calm because we’re in a semifinal. We know our opponent and it’s important to keep that serenity,” he said in a team vlog.

Kickoff is set for Tuesday at 9 PM local time (Wednesday 03:00 BST). The winner will face either England or Argentina in the final on July 19. “This is a World Cup semifinal, and the level is extremely high,” Deschamps said. “We’ll do everything to make this evening go very well for us.”