Spain face France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Dallas on Tuesday evening. The European champions seek their first final appearance since 2010 while France aim for a third consecutive final.
Spain captain Rodri expressed hope that Lamine Yamal can deliver a bigger impact after a quiet tournament to date. The 19-year-old has scored once against Saudi Arabia and is yet to record an assist.
Rodri told The Guardian that Yamal remains key despite his age and the need to manage his eagerness. He noted the maturity shown at Euro 2024 and stressed keeping the forward calm ahead of the contest.
France have conceded no goals in three knockout matches and are led by Kylian Mbappe with eight tournament goals. Spain have kept six clean sheets before conceding once against Belgium and hold an unbeaten run of 36 matches.
The sides last met in a 5-4 Nations League thriller won by Spain. Rodri said an open game like that is unlikely and Spain must control proceedings against the physical French defence.
