France’s hopes of lifting the World Cup came to an abrupt end after a convincing 2-0 semifinal defeat to Spain, with Didier Deschamps’ side falling well short in what was widely viewed as their first major test of the tournament. Unlike the dramatic 2022 World Cup final against Argentina, when France recovered from a poor start before eventually losing on penalties, there was no late revival this time.

France are just one win away from reaching their third consecutive World Cup final and fifth in eight tournaments, as they prepare to take on Spain Tuesday...

Didier Deschamps has a big decision to make in midfield with Aurélien Tchouaméni available.