The Euro 2024 journey, since the Euros Start, has been nothing short of spectacular, and now it culminates in a highly anticipated semifinal showdown between football powerhouses Spain and France. As the euros start of the tournament fades into memory, only the strongest teams remain, vying for the coveted title. This Tuesday, July 9th, at 9pm (19:00 GMT), the Munich Football Arena in Germany will witness a clash of titans as Spain and France battle for a place in the Euro 2024 final. Football fans worldwide are eager to see if Spain can continue their flawless run or if France, despite recent criticisms, will rise to the occasion.
This semifinal is more than just a game; it’s a clash of styles, generations, and expectations. Spain, the only team to maintain a perfect winning streak since the euros start, enters as the favourite based on form, while France, despite being pre-tournament favourites, have shown inconsistencies. Kylian Mbappe, France’s star striker, and Lamine Yamal, Spain’s teenage sensation, are just two of the compelling narratives that will unfold on the pitch.
France’s Rocky Road Since Euros Start
France’s path through Euro 2024, from the euros start, has been less than convincing for many analysts. Despite their formidable squad and status as pre-tournament favourites, their performances have drawn criticism. While they reached the semifinals, their journey hasn’t been the dominant display many anticipated at the euros start. Notably, they progressed to the final four without scoring a single goal from open play in the knockout stages, raising concerns about their attacking prowess against top-tier defenses like Spain’s.
Their quarterfinal victory against Portugal was a narrow escape decided by penalties, further highlighting their struggles in open play. Mbappe, often hailed as a game-changer, has been under scrutiny, especially after his subdued performance against Portugal where his mask adjustments seemed to overshadow his attacking contributions. Antoine Griezmann’s form is also a point of concern, leaving questions about France’s firepower as they face a resolute Spanish side.
Youssouf Fofana, the French midfielder, brushed aside the criticism, emphasizing their semifinal qualification as sufficient justification. However, the questions surrounding the attacking duo of Mbappe and Griezmann persist, especially when contrasted with Spain’s fluid and high-scoring offense.
Spain’s Dominant Form from Euros Start
In stark contrast to France, Spain has been the epitome of consistency and attacking flair since the euros start. They are the only team to have won all their matches in Euro 2024, showcasing a blend of tactical discipline and offensive creativity that has made them the team to beat. Their statistics speak volumes: joint-top scorer with 11 goals, leading the tournament in total attempts (102), and ball recoveries (230). This dominance has firmly established them as the new favourites to lift the Euro 2024 trophy.
However, Spain faces challenges of their own heading into this crucial semifinal. Injuries and suspensions will force coach Luis de la Fuente to reshuffle his lineup. Midfielder Pedri’s knee injury rules him out for the remainder of the tournament, while defenders Robin Le Normand and Dani Carvajal are suspended. This necessitates a defensive reshuffle, with Nacho partnering Aymeric Laporte in central defense and veteran Jesus Navas, at 38 years old, filling in at fullback.
Despite these absences, Spain possesses a deep squad brimming with talent and experience. Navas, a link to Spain’s golden generation that conquered the 2010 World Cup and Euro titles in 2008 and 2012, brings invaluable experience. Alongside him on the right flank, the electrifying 16-year-old Lamine Yamal continues to impress, forming a dynamic partnership with the slightly older Nico Williams. This blend of youth and experience, guided by Luis de la Fuente, has been a winning formula for Spain throughout the euros start.
Key Matchup and Tactical Battle
The semifinal clash promises a fascinating tactical battle. Spain’s possession-based style, focused on intricate passing and relentless pressing, will test France’s defensive organization and counter-attacking capabilities. France, known for their individual brilliance and pace, will look to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities in the Spanish backline, particularly with Mbappe’s speed and Griezmann’s creativity, if they can rediscover their best form from the euros start.
Spain’s ability to control the midfield, orchestrated by Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, will be crucial in dictating the tempo and denying France space to launch quick attacks. Conversely, France will rely on the defensive midfield prowess of N’Golo Kante and Aurelien Tchouameni to disrupt Spain’s rhythm and create turnovers. The battle in midfield will likely be the key to unlocking the game and determining which team controls the flow from the euros start to the final whistle.
Road to the Final and Historical Context
The winner of this semifinal will advance to the Euro 2024 final on July 14th, facing either Netherlands or England. For Spain, victory would mean a step closer to a record fourth European Championship title, reaffirming their status as a dominant force in European football since their golden era began after the euros start in 2008. For France, winning the Euros would solidify their position among the elite and mark their first Euros title since 2000, despite their recent World Cup successes.
Historically, Spain holds a slight edge in head-to-head encounters with 16 wins compared to France’s 13 in 36 matches. However, in recent times, France has proven to be a formidable opponent. This semifinal is poised to be another enthralling chapter in their storied rivalry as the euros start draws to a thrilling conclusion.
Fun Fact: Spain is aiming to become the first team to win six consecutive matches in the history of the European Championship, a testament to their dominant run since the euros start.
FIFA Rankings:
Spain (8), France (2)
Head-to-Head Record (36 games):
- Spain Wins: 16
- France Wins: 13
- Draws: 7
Last Five Matches:
- Spain: W-W-W-W-W
- France: D-W-D-D-W
Possible Lineups:
Spain: Unai Simon; Navas, Nacho, Laporte, Cucurella; Olmo, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Morata, Williams
France: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Griezmann; Kolo Muani, Mbappe
Source: Al Jazeera and news agencies
