Kylian Mbappé is set to lead France's attack in Tuesday's World Cup semifinal clash against Spain, despite concerns after his early exit from the quarterfinal victory over Morocco. The star striker was substituted in the 77th minute of that match.
Mbappé, who netted his eighth goal of the tournament against Morocco, enters the semifinal level with Argentina's Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. The 39-year-old Messi holds a World Cup-record 21 career goals, one more than the 27-year-old French captain.
France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed Mbappé was "fine physically" following what was described as a "slight" right ankle injury sustained in the previous game. Mbappé is one of six players, including fellow forward Ousmane Dembele and goalkeeper Mike Maignan, to have started all seven World Cup matches for France.
On the Spanish side, versatile Arsenal player Mikel Merino is expected to come off the bench for the sixth time in seven games. Merino has proven to be a crucial impact substitute, scoring winning goals within minutes of his introduction in the 1-0 victory over Portugal in the round of 16 and the 2-1 quarterfinal win against Belgium.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will make his sixth consecutive start for Spain, a day after celebrating his 19th birthday. The Barcelona forward initially came off the bench in the team's opening 0-0 draw against surprise package Cape Verde.
However, Spain will be without Nico Williams in the starting lineup. The forward has been managing a muscle injury since the group stage finale against Uruguay, having missed the first two knockout games before entering in the 79th minute against Belgium.
