The psychological battle has already begun ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between France and Spain, but France defender Ibrahima Konaté says Les Bleus are staying focused on the football rather than the pre-match comments.
The European heavyweights will face off for a place in the World Cup final, with both teams arriving in strong form after impressive knockout-stage performances. While Spain’s players have spoken confidently about the contest, France insist they are not paying attention to the verbal exchanges.
Spain confident after recent victories over France
Spain enter the semi-final with confidence, having defeated France in their last two major meetings. They edged Les Bleus 2-1 in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final before securing a thrilling 5-4 victory in the UEFA Nations League semi-final.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal believes Spain have every reason to back themselves.
“We beat France in our last two matches. If France has anything to fear, it’s us. We’ll see what happens, but we’re not afraid,” Yamal said.
His teammate Nico Williams echoed those sentiments, saying Spain’s confidence comes from recent performances rather than arrogance.
“We don’t have to be afraid of them. We’ve already shown that by beating them twice. It’s not arrogance; it’s self-confidence.”
Spain defender Pau Cubarsí also dismissed suggestions that France captain Kylian Mbappé intimidates him.
“He doesn’t scare me. Everyone knows his qualities. Even if he’s quiet for most of the game, he can change everything with one moment. We have to stay focused throughout the match.”
Konaté refuses to fall into the ‘trap’
France centre-back Ibrahima Konaté responded calmly to Spain’s remarks, describing them as an attempt to create unnecessary distractions before one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
The Liverpool defender said France will remain humble and concentrate solely on their preparation.
“Honestly, we don’t pay attention to what’s being said. We mustn’t be afraid of anyone. We have to stay humble and not fall into that trap, especially at this stage of the competition,” Konaté said.
“They can say what they want. We’ll prepare as well as we can, and after the match we’ll see who comes out on top.”
High stakes in Dallas
The semi-final promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. France, led by tournament top scorer Kylian Mbappé, are aiming to reach another World Cup final, while reigning European champions Spain hope to continue their impressive run under a fearless young squad featuring Yamal and Williams.
With a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final at stake, both teams will look to let their football do the talking when they meet in Dallas.
