Deschamps Backs Spain As Favourites Ahead Of World Cup Semi-Final

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Deschamps praised Spain's impressive performances throughout the tournament, highlighting the fluid attacking football and defensive discipline that have made La Roja one of the standout teams in the competition.

"Spain are the favourites," Deschamps said. "They've shown their quality from the beginning of the tournament. They've scored a lot of goals, conceded very few and have been the most consistent team. That's simply a fact."

Spain got into the last four after seeing-off Belgium in the quarter-finals, extending an unbeaten run that has reinforced their status as one of the leading contenders for the title.

Spain boasts of a youthful, yet fearless squad, La Roja have combined technical excellence with tactical maturity, earning widespread praise from football pundits and opponents alike.

France, on the the other hand, have quietly grown into the tournament. Les Bleus secured their semi-final berth with a disciplined victory over Morocco, once again demonstrating the resilience and tournament know-how that have become trademarks of Deschamps' tenure.

The French boss, however, dismissed suggestions that acknowledging Spain's status as favourites places additional pressure on the opposition. Instead, he described it as recognition of their outstanding form.

"It doesn't change anything for us," he added. "We know the challenge that awaits us, but we've prepared well. At this stage of the World Cup, every team deserves to be here."

The semi-final also rekindles one of international football's fiercest modern rivalries. Spain defeated France in recent major competition meetings, and another victory would send them into the World Cup final for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2010.

France, meanwhile, are chasing another appearance in the final as they aim to add a third  consecutive World Cup finals and third World Cup title to their illustrious history.

With world-class talent on both sides, the encounter promises to be one of the tournament's defining fixtures. While Spain may enter as favourites in Deschamps' eyes, France's experience on the biggest stage ensures they remain a formidable obstacle.

As kick-off approaches, football fans around the world can expect a tactical battle between two European giants, with a coveted place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake.