France-Spain acid test: Football world Aawaits World Cup's 'early final'

Spain secured their ticket to the semifinals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Following this breathtaking victory at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Luis de la Fuente's men are now one step closer to the title. However, their toughest test awaits them in the final four against current runners-up, France. Many are already calling this clash between the two European football powerhouses the 'final before the final'.

France proved their strength in the very first match of the quarterfinals. Led by Kylian Mbappé, Didier Deschamps' side had already secured their spot in the final four by defeating Morocco 2-0. Spain then joined them after eliminating Belgium. The highly anticipated semifinal between the two European giants will take place on Tuesday, July 14, at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The two teams will take the field on Wednesday at 1:00 AM Bangladesh Time (BST).

Spain dominated the match against Belgium from the start. La Roja took the lead in the 30th minute through a goal from Fabian Ruiz. However, Belgium equalized in the 41st minute with a brilliant finish by Charles De Ketelaere. In the second half, experienced goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the field due to an injury, which came as a major blow for Belgium. Capitalizing on that opportunity, substitute player Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 88th minute to send Spain through to the semifinals.

The two most consistent teams of the tournament face each other in this semifinal. On one side is a fast and attacking France, featuring Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Aurélien Tchouaméni. On the other side is a magnificent Spain, showcasing a rhythmic, possession-based brand of football with the combination of Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Pedri, and Fabian Ruiz. Excitation is at its peak surrounding this duel between the two teams' contrasting football philosophies.

The significance of this match goes beyond just a ticket to the final; it is a battle for supremacy between two successful eras of modern European football. Spain is dreaming of winning the World Cup again for the first time since 2010, while 2022 runners-up France want to reach the final once more and move closer to reclaiming the title. The football world is thus set to witness one of the most attractive battles of the World Cup this coming Wednesday morning at the green galleries of Dallas.