What to expect in the semi-finals

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. Big stars and old rivals - what to expect in semi-finalsByAdwaidh RajanBBC Sport journalistPublished2 hours agoThe World Cup continues to deliver drama and unforgettable moments, and the field is now down to just four nations as we head into the semi-finals. France, Spain, England and Argentina are now two wins away from the world title and with a place in the final at stake, the margin for error is now almost non-existent. So what can we look forward to in the last-four ties?

This is your guide to the World Cup semi-finals. Mbappe v Yamal - European heavyweights go head-to-head Figure caption, Spain into semi-finals at expense of Belgium after Merino's late winnerFrance v Spain, Dallas Stadium, Tuesday 20:00 BSTWhat to watch out for: With two of Europe's strongest squads going up against each other, this fixture has all the ingredients for becoming a World Cup classic. Kylian Mbappe dominated the headlines again as France beat Morocco 2-0 to reach the semi-finals, taking his tally to eight goals for the tournament and moving just one behind Lionel Messi in the race to become the World Cup's all-time top scorer.

The Details

But France's biggest strength is their quality across the pitch, with Ousmane Dembele sealing the quarter-final victory and taking his own tally to five goals. Michael Olise has provided the creative spark for Didier Deschamps' side and leads the competition with five assists. That depth could prove vital for the two-time winners against a Spain side, who beat them 2-1 in the semi-finals on their way to winning the Euros in 2024.

There is a sense that Spain's best football is yet to come. Their star attraction Lamine Yamal is yet to truly announce himself at the World Cup. The Barcelona winger has scored only once - against Saudi Arabia in the group stage.

Four-goal Mikel Oyarzabal has blanked in the past two matches, so Luis de la Fuente's side have needed late intervention from substitute Mikel Merino to edge past both Portugal and Belgium in the knockout rounds. Looking to add to their 2010 triumph, Spain would hope Yamal, who will turn 19 on the eve of the tie, picks the semi-final to deliver a performance that justifies his talent. Key stats: France will be playing in their eighth World Cup semi-final, equalling Brazil, with only Germany (12) featuring in more.

What Experts Say

Spain are on the longest unbeaten run in their history and have now avoided defeat in each of their past 36 matches since a 1-0 loss to Colombia in March 2024. They have won 27 and drawn nine of their matches during that period. This will be just the second World Cup meeting between the sides.

Les Blues came from behind to win 3-1 when they met in the last 16 in 2006. How to follow: Listen to full Radio 5 Live commentary on Sounds and follow live text updates on the Sport website and app. Figure caption, France into semi-finals after comfortable win over Morocco What information do we collect from this quiz?

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.