Deschamps acknowledges Spain as favorites ahead of World Cup semifinal

Didier Deschamps acknowledged without hesitation that Spain were favorites for the World Cup semifinal against France on July 14, during his pre-match press conference. The French manager even made this concession in Spanish, underlining La Roja’s solidity throughout the tournament.

“Yes, I confirm it to you. Given what they’ve shown… The first match against Cape Verde, we forget about that. But for the rest, Spain confirmed they were the favorites,” Deschamps said. La Roja, defending European champions, have conceded just one goal in six matches, while the Blues have scored 16 goals over the same period.

Deschamps detailed the reasons for this status, insisting on the dual dimension of the Spanish team. “Spain also knows how to attack and defends very well. They’ve conceded just one goal in six matches,” he emphasized, adding that he did not wish to “put pressure on Luis [de la Fuente] and his team,” aware that expectations around La Roja are already considerable.

The French coach nevertheless hinted at an open encounter. In their last meeting, in June 2025 in the UEFA Nations League, Spain won 5-4. A precedent that fuels hopes for a similar spectacle. “It can be a spectacular match with two teams that have a lot of offensive quality. But Luis, and I too, we’re thinking a bit about defending well. Given the quality of both teams offensively, we can think it will be spectacular,” Deschamps acknowledged.

France are attempting tonight to qualify for their third consecutive World Cup final, and the fifth in their history. Spain, for their part, are seeking to reach the final for the fourth time.