The FIFA World Cup 2026 reaches a thrilling stage as France take on Spain in the first semifinal on Wednesday, July 15 (IST). With a place in the World Cup final at stake, two of Europe's biggest football powerhouses will battle it out in what promises to be one of the tournament's most exciting matches.
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France enter the contest after an unbeaten run through the competition, while Spain have impressed with their possession-based football and resilient performances in the knockout rounds. Here's everything you need to know, including the match time in India, venue, standings, semifinal preview and live streaming details.
France vs Spain match time in India
The FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal between France and Spain will kick off at:
Match: France vs Spain
Date: Wednesday, July 15 (IST)
Kick-off: 12:30 AM IST
Stage: FIFA World Cup 2026 Semifinal
The match is scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM ET on Tuesday, July 14, which translates to 12:30 AM IST on Wednesday, July 15 for fans in India.
France vs Spain venue
The blockbuster semifinal will be played at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, one of the premier venues hosting matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The winner will advance to the World Cup final, while the losing side will compete in the third-place playoff.
France vs Spain semifinal preview
France have looked like one of the tournament favourites from the very beginning. Didier Deschamps' side finished the group stage with three wins before eliminating Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco in the knockout rounds. Led by an explosive attack, Les Bleus are aiming to reach their third consecutive FIFA World Cup final.
Spain, meanwhile, have steadily grown stronger with each match. The reigning European champions defeated Austria in the Round of 32, edged past Portugal in the Round of 16 and overcame Belgium in the quarterfinals to secure a place in the last four. Their possession-heavy style and disciplined defence make them formidable opponents.
France's road to the semifinal
France have won every match in the tournament so far.
Group Stage: Defeated Senegal, Iraq and Norway
Round of 32: Beat Sweden (3-0)
Round of 16: Beat Paraguay (1-0)
Quarterfinal: Beat Morocco (2-0)
Spain's road to the semifinal
Spain have also enjoyed an impressive campaign.
Group Stage: Advanced to the knockout stage
Round of 32: Beat Austria (3-0)
Round of 16: Beat Portugal (1-0)
Quarterfinal: Beat Belgium (2-1)
Current standings
Only four teams remain in contention for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title:
France
Spain
England
Argentina
The winner of France vs Spain will become the first finalist, while the second finalist will be decided after the England vs Argentina semifinal.
France vs Spain live streaming details
Football fans in India can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal live on Unite8 Sports television channels. The match will also be available for live streaming on ZEE5, with selected coverage available on DD Sports.
What's at stake?
With the World Cup trophy now within touching distance, neither France nor Spain can afford a mistake. France are chasing another appearance in the final after reaching the last two editions, while Spain are looking to return to football's biggest stage for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2010. The clash promises world-class football, tactical intrigue and a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final.
