Comments and predictions on results France – Spain: Not many goals

The upcoming semifinal match between France and Spain (02:00, 10/7) in the EURO 2024 has garnered significant attention from football enthusiasts. Both teams have shown remarkable performances throughout the tournament, making this clash highly anticipated.

The first quarterfinal of EURO 2024 was filled with emotions as several prominent teams were eliminated. Among them, Germany faced Spain in a thrilling encounter. Spain opened the scoring through Dani Olmo, but Florian Wirtz equalized for Germany in the dying moments, pushing the game into extra time. Despite numerous chances, only Mikel Merino managed to find the back of the net, securing a 2-1 victory for Spain in the 119th minute.

In contrast, the match between France and Portugal ended goalless after 120 minutes. Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe were unable to make an impact. The game went to penalties, where Joao Felix’s miss proved costly for Portugal, allowing France to advance.

As France and Spain prepare to face off, memories of their last EURO encounter in 2012 linger. Spain triumphed 2-0 in that quarterfinal, and France is eager to settle the score.

Spain enters the match with a slight edge in attacking prowess, boasting young talents who have impressed throughout the tournament. However, France’s disciplined and strategic playstyle poses a significant challenge. Both teams have a fair chance of making it to the final.

Team News

Spain will be without key players Pedri, who is injured, and central defender Normand, who is suspended along with Dani Carvajal. Coach De La Fuente will rely heavily on the attacking trio of Yamal, Williams, and Morata, with Olmo and Merino offering potential impact off the bench.

France, on the other hand, has a full-strength squad. Coach Deschamps welcomes back Rabiot from suspension, while Camavinga might return to the bench. The familiar attacking duo of Thuram and Mbappe is expected to lead the line.

Predicted Lineups

Spain: Simon, Nacho, Laporte, Merino, Cucurella, Olmo, Rodri, Ruiz, Yamal, Williams, Morata.

France: Maignan; Theo, Upamecano, Saliba, Kounde; Kante, Tchouameni, Rabiot, Griezmann; Thuram, Mbappe.

Key Players

Dani Olmo: Stepping in for Pedri, Olmo has been a revelation, scoring and assisting in crucial moments. His performance will be vital for Spain.

Theo Hernandez: Outstanding against Portugal, Hernandez’s ability to support both defense and attack makes him a key player for France.

Form and Head-to-Head

Both teams have shown strong form. Spain has a perfect record of five wins, while France remains unbeaten with three draws in their last five matches. Historically, their encounters have been balanced, with each team winning twice and one match ending in a draw.

Expert Prediction

Given the semifinal’s high stakes, this match is expected to be closely contested. Spain’s defensive absences might give France a slight edge. However, both teams are likely to play cautiously, resulting in few goals.