EURO 2024 Semi-final: Team news, prediction, all details as Spain take on France
The Eufa Euro 2024 semi-finals will kick off on Tuesday 9th July, 2024 with Spain facing France at Allianz Arena in Munich.
Spain secured their spot in the final four on Friday, defeating Germany in a thrilling extra-time match in Stuttgart. Dani Olmo’s goal had given Spain the lead, but Florian Wirtz’s late equalizer forced extra time. Mikel Merino’s header in the 119th minute avoided a penalty shootout.
France, meanwhile, advanced to the semis by winning a penalty shootout against Portugal, following a grueling 0-0 draw. Despite criticism of Didier Deschamps’ conservative tactics, which have yet to produce a goal in open play, France is now one win away from reaching their third major final in four tournaments, a testament to their resilience and determination.
This is going to be a thrilling game in Munich between two European football powerhouses.
Spain has been a standout performer in this year’s euro tournament, boasting a perfect record with five consecutive wins.
They have also demonstrated remarkable offensive and defensive prowess, leading the competition in goal attempts (102) and balls recovered (230), while sharing the top spot in goals scored (11). This clash is shaping up to be an truly unforgettable contest.
France boasts a formidable team that has demonstrated impressive defensive solidity, maintaining four clean sheets in their five matches. With their sights set on a fourth major tournament final in eight years, following their appearances in the EURO 2016 final and the 2018 and 2022 World Cup finals, France’s experience in high-stakes games is unparalleled, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and their consistent excellence on the biggest stage.
This will be the first time both heavyweights will play each other in the knock out stage of a major tournament in over ten years.
The last time was in 2012 when La Roja won 2:0 to go ahead and retain the title and that was their only major tournament win in recent history against the Les Blues who have won them in the 2021 Nations league final, 2006 World Cup, Euro 2000 and also the 1984 Euro final.
SPAIN VS FRANCE TEAM NEWS
Spain faces a setback with key players ruled out for the semi-final clash. Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand are suspended, while Pedri suffered a knee injury in the quarter-final, and being ruled out for the remainder of Euro 2024.
The Barcelona midfielder’s emotional exit from the field on Friday highlighted the severity of the injury, leaving Spain without a crucial player for the rest of the tournament.
With Dani Carvajal suspended, Nacho or veteran player Jesus Navas, 38, may get the opportunity to start at right-back, providing experience and stability in the defensive lineup.
More on football:
A good or bad decision? Details of Pochettino’s Chelsea exit and his possible replacement
Cole Palmer: From Man City’s bench warmer to EPL player of the season contender
Ronaldo, Messi, Ceni… See list of top 10 best penalty takers in football
France has a clean slate in terms of disciplinary issues, but Kylian Mbappe’s nose injury is still a concern for coach Didier Deschamps.
Despite this, Kylian Mbappe is expected to play from the start. Randal Kolo Muani and Eduardo Camavinga got their chance to start against Portugal, but failed to impress.
With Adrien Rabiot now available after serving his suspension, he’s likely to reclaim his starting spot, and France is poised to field a full-strength team, unlike their Spanish opponents who are grappling with key absences.
SPAIN PREDICTED STARTING LINE-UP:
Unai Simón, Navas, Nacho, Laporte, Cucurella, Olmo, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Lamine Yamal, Morata (C), Williams
FRANCE PREDICTED STARTING LINE-UP:
Maignan, Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernández; Kanté, Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Griezmann, Kolo Muani, Mbappé (C)
SPAIN VS FRANCE TIME AND DATE
Kick-off date is Tuesday 9th July, 2024
Kick-off time is 8:00PM (WAT)
Venue: Allianz Arena
Referee will be Slavko Vincic
SPAIN VS FRANCE PREDICTION:
Based on recent performances, Spain appears poised to exact revenge for their 2021 UEFA Nations League final defeat. With their consistent wins, prolific goal-scoring, and convincing displays, La Roja seems to have the upper hand in their sixth major tournament encounter against France, whose defensive solidity has not been matched by their attacking prowess.
Despite Les Bleus’ robust defense, Spain’s pace and flair are likely to eventually break through, securing a well-deserved spot in the final.
Prediction: Spain to win 1:0
Read also: Ronaldo, Messi, Ceni… See list of top 10 best penalty takers in football
