France became the first team to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their spot after a 2-1 victory over Portugal on July 9. The team now awaits the winner of the Spain vs. Belgium quarter-final, scheduled for Friday, July 11, 2026.
According to reports from L'Équipe, the French squad had a day off on July 10 to rest and recover. They will gather on July 11 to watch the Spain-Belgium match together as a team, analyzing their potential semi-final opponent. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
France's semi-final is set for Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the same venue. Coach Didier Deschamps has emphasized the importance of preparation, stating, 'We know both teams well. Spain has a strong possession game, while Belgium is dangerous on the counter-attack. We will be ready.'
Key players like Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann are expected to be fit for the semi-final, having been rested in the latter stages of the quarter-final. The team's medical staff confirmed no new injuries from the Portugal match.
