For the first time in history, all four of FIFA’s top-ranked teams have made it to the World Cup semi-finals. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time since 1990 that only past champions have reached the final four. Notably, five of the top six goal scorers in this tournament will be competing.
In the upcoming two days, fans can look forward to two thrilling match-ups brimming with fierce rivalries and intriguing storylines. The tournament will kick off this afternoon in Dallas, where Europe’s powerhouse teams, France and Spain, will face off. Tomorrow, England will take on Argentina in Atlanta.
The NBC News team will provide live updates for both games.
World Cup Preview
France, known as Les Bleus, meets La Roja—Spain’s national team—in what promises to be a captivating clash of contrasting styles. France’s dynamic attacking play will be pitted against Spain’s formidable defense, setting the stage for an exhilarating matchup.
Spain clinched its first World Cup title in 2010 but now faces the daunting challenge of defeating the 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up, France. With the match coinciding with Bastille Day, will the celebrations echo through the streets of Paris or Madrid this evening?
Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente will be relying on the talent of star winger Lamine Yamal, who just celebrated his 19th birthday, to replicate the form that led La Roja to the European title two years ago. Yamal also delivered a crucial goal in the semi-final against France in Munich, leading to a 2-1 victory. He emphasized the match’s significance, stating that it is the most important of his career thus far.
This tournament has unveiled thrilling performances from marquee players, including France’s Kylian Mbappé, who leads the Golden Boot race with eight goals. However, Yamal’s contribution has been modest, with only one goal and one assist to his name. Entering the competition with a hamstring injury, he has yet to shine brightly. Instead, Spain has seen late-game heroics from substitute Mikel Merino, who scored decisive goals in previous knockout rounds.
In their careers, Yamal and Mbappé have clashed ten times, with Yamal emerging victorious in eight encounters. Mbappé’s French squad includes four other players from Real Madrid, such as Aurelien Tchouaméni and new signing Ibrahima Konaté. Interestingly, De la Fuente opted not to include any Real Madrid players in his World Cup lineup, although left-back Marc Cucurella transitioned from Chelsea to Los Blancos recently.
Lucus Digne’s matchup against Yamal could prove pivotal, as French defender Jules Koundé, Yamal’s Barcelona teammate, will be on hand. The outcome of this individual contest could significantly influence the broader dynamics of the match.
The Landscape of American Soccer
Recent tensions among U.S. soccer fans highlight generational divides regarding Captain Christian Pulisic’s performance. Despite concerns over his form leading into the summer, there is still substantial room for optimism. The U.S. mens’ national team could thrive in the next four years if even one talented young player from the current roster steps up.
Goalkeeper remains the only position lacking consistent success since Tim Howard’s retirement. However, two promising 20-year-old prospects, Barcelona’s Diego Kochen (recently loaned to Denmark’s Lyngby) and Brentford’s Julian Eyestone, provide hope.
Excitement is particularly high in the attacking lineup. Cavan Sullivan has become a standout name, flanked by several other young talents. Among them are Julian Hall of New York Red Bulls, who has netted nine goals in 15 MLS appearances this season, and 19-year-old Xavier Gozo from Real Salt Lake, garnering attention from Aston Villa. European soccer enthusiasts will also keep an eye on Borussia Dortmund’s 17-year-old Matisse Alberto, who aspires to emulate the pathways charted by Pulisic and Gio Reyna.
Today’s Matches
Only one game is scheduled for today, so be sure to adjust your plans! The match will be broadcast on Telemundo and Peacock. Times listed are in Eastern Time.
Stay tuned for more updates tomorrow.
