France vs Spain: A dream lives on, another dies

ARLINGTON  – France’s exciting attack led by Kylian Mbappe take on a technically accomplished Spain team in the first semifinal of the World Cup on Tuesday.

France have reached the past two World Cup finals, winning in 2018 in Russia and losing on penalties to Argentina four years ago in Qatar in an epic final despite a hat-trick from Kylian Mbappe.

They are aiming to win the World Cup for a third time while Spain – despite their rich footballing tradition – have lifted the famous trophy just once, in South Africa in 2010.

Many observers believe this year’s Spain squad have the quality to win the tournament and they have picked up speed since stumbling in a goalless draw against debutants Cape Verde – but first they need to stop France’s star-studded frontline, orchestrated by Mbappe.

The Real Madrid forward has scored eight goals to lead the Golden Boot race alongside Lionel Messi and will give Spain’s defenders a different challenge in Arlington, Texas.

France’s roster of forwards also includes Ballon D’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, the English-born forward whose pace and dribbling pull defenses out of shape, allowing Mbappe the space to work his magic.

Behind them, France can call on Paris Saint-Germain pair Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue, both capable of scoring.

Defeat to Messi’s Argentina in the final in Doha four years ago was a bitter experience for France, and the desire for a rematch is strong – if Messi can lead his team past England in their semifinal in Atlanta on Wednesday.

In Lamine Yamal, Spain have the player who will likely succeed Messi and the far younger Mbappe as football’s next superstar.