Didier Deschamps, coach of the French national team, confirmed on Monday that the Spanish national team, reigning European champions, is the 'clear favorite' in their Tuesday clash in Dallas, in the semi-final of the North America World Cup.

This statement comes ahead of a highly anticipated match between two European football giants in the World Cup semi-final.

Deschamps spoke at the press conference on the eve of the match, saying: 'Spain are the clear favorites, and that's not to put pressure on Luis (de la Fuente, Spain coach). People expect a lot from Spain. They know how to attack, defend well, and don't concede goals. It could be a showcase match between two teams with attacking capabilities.'

Related news

The coach of 'the Blues' added: 'We are also a team that needs the ball and is capable of creating problems for opponents. The battle will be tough. There is no desire for revenge (after the two losses in Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League). What's done is done, and what matters to me is tomorrow.' Spain coach Luis de la Fuente responded, saying: 'Picking a favorite doesn't change anything. Teams face pressure at this stage of the tournament, and throwing the ball into the other's court won't add more pressure.' Regarding how to defend against 'La Roja' talent Lamine Yamal, he pointed out that 'the important thing is to limit his influence.' He added jokingly: 'In one-on-one situations it's difficult, but facing some of our players one-on-one won't be a walk in the park for the Spaniards either.' Deschamps also reassured about the condition of star, captain and top scorer Kylian Mbappé, who left the pitch after a collision to his right ankle in the final minutes of the quarter-final against Morocco (2-0). He said: 'Kylian is fine.' Regarding his Real Madrid teammate, Spanish midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, who missed the last two matches against Paraguay and Morocco due to an adductor muscle injury, Deschamps confirmed that he is not at peak physical fitness, but he is 'available', without revealing whether he would start against Spain. He added: 'His last match was 15 days ago, but that is not an obstacle either.'

The match takes on special significance after Spain's superiority over France in the last two official meetings, adding a challenge for Les Bleus. Additionally, Kylian Mbappé's fitness boosts France's hopes, while Aurélien Tchouaméni suffers from a lack of physical readiness. Each team seeks to secure its place in the final.