Spain and Yamal... A major challenge for France's defense
Boston – AFP – The French national football team’s defense has not committed any notable errors so far, but it may face strong shocks on Tuesday in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinal in North America against the talented Spanish attack led by Lamine Yamal, who has been far from his best levels so far but is capable of stunning the “Blues” with a single glance, as he did two years ago in the European Championship.
While attention naturally focuses on the enchanting attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise, the defensive line has been no less impressive, playing a major role in the unbeaten run that led the “Roosters” to the semifinals for the third consecutive time.
The defensive duo of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba quickly dispelled doubts, showing unprecedented solidity since the start of the tournament by conceding only two goals in six matches.
Coach Didier Deschante is credited with building an attack-oriented national team while simultaneously maintaining a defensive balance capable of significantly limiting the danger posed by opponents.
However, it must be acknowledged that France has not yet faced a top-tier attack, which could change clearly against “La Roja,” with its dazzling technical skills and creative player like Barcelona star Yamal.
So far, the Barcelona jewel, who will turn 19 on Monday, has not shown his full talent during the World Cup, although his impact remains evident, as seen in Spain’s opening goal in the quarterfinal against Belgium (2-1).
Although he was a candidate to be one of the standout stars of the 2026 edition, he arrived in the United States injured. His statistical record so far is limited for a player of his caliber (one goal against Saudi Arabia with no assists), but one opportunity is enough for him to ignite the atmosphere.
The French know this well, having witnessed his stunning display in the 2024 European Championship semifinal in Germany (2-1), when he equalized with an incredible curling shot from over 20 meters into the top corner.
That was his only goal in the European tournament, but it was a touch of genius and decisiveness for Spain on its path to the title.
Yamal told Spanish channel “TVE”: “If we win the World Cup, I don’t think anyone will remember how many goals I scored or missed. If we win, everyone will be happy, that’s all I want. I know my movements attract many defenders, and I can create space for my teammates. Anything I can do to help, even without touching the ball, will be useful.”
Confident in himself, he already began addressing the comments with sharp words, saying: “If France has to fear anyone, it’s us. We eliminated them last time. Spain and France are great teams, among the best in the world, perhaps the best in my opinion. We’ll see what happens, but we’re not afraid.”
Thus, France faces a tough test, as the full-backs, especially Lucas Digne on the left, await a daunting task. Deschante and his coaching staff will need to find the right equation to limit his threat, while monitoring other dangers such as Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal (4 goals), or Nico Williams, who is gradually regaining fitness after an adductor injury during the first round.
The midfield duo of Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni (or Manu Koné) will act as a “double pivot” in front of the defense, without forgetting the defensive roles of attacking players, particularly Désiré Doué or Bradley Barcola on the left.
Dembélé, the Ballon d’Or winner, said: “There are many areas that need improvement, both defensively and offensively. I believe we can be more effective. We can concede fewer goals and press better.”
