Ladbrokes previews France vs Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup, with bet builder tips
France tipped to reach a third consecutive World Cup final, with Kylian Mbappe impressing once again
Both teams expected to score in Texas, with Alex Baena committing multiple fouls
Ladbrokes brings you an in-depth match preview for France vs Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup, including odds, predictions, and bet builder tips.
We're all set for one of the most enticing games in recent memory, as the two pre-tournament favourites go head-to-head for a place in the World Cup final. France are eying up a third straight final, while Spain are looking for their first appearance on football's grandest stage since 2010, and while the match odds favour Les Bleus, Luis de la Fuente's Spaniards have shown more than enough to suggest this one could go either way - so expect a semi-final to remember.
Below, we've put together the ultimate France vs Spain bet builder, with all the key match information, predicted lineups, and the latest live betting markets.
Our predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Simon / Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella / Rodri, Pedri / Yamal, Olmo, Baena / Oyarzabal
France vs Spain: Bet builder tips
Both teams to score in France vs Spain
To align with our score prediction of 2-1, the first pick of our World Cup semi-final bet builder is for both teams to score, as two of the world's most exciting teams go toe-to-toe for a place in Sunday's showpiece.
France's frontline needs no introduction at this point, with Golden Boot favourite Kylian Mbappe, assist king Michael Olise, and Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembele just some of the names at Didier Deschamps' disposal, and with 16 goals in their six matches this summer, the World Cup favourites certainly know how to hurt any opponent. Spain themselves also offer real threat, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, so despite both defences being immensely strong, our experts are anticipating goals at both ends.
So both teams to score is our first pick here, with the fearsome forwards taking centre stage in this highly anticipated semi-final in the Texas sunshine.
Kylian Mbappe to have 3+ shots on target
Speaking of fearsome forwards, they don't come any more dangerous than Kylian Mbappe, who is leading the way in both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball betting markets - and we're expecting another impactful display, with the 27-year-old having at least three shots on target.
Eight goals in six games have Mbappe sitting pretty at the top of the goalscoring charts this summer, alongside Lionel Messi (the World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer), and it would come as a huge surprise if he failed to test Golden Glove favourite Unai Simon in this one. With an average of 3.3 shots on target per 90, Mbappe is hitting the target more than any other player at the World Cup, and considering he's one of just two men in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, we all know he's fond of stepping up in the biggest moments.
So Mbappe to have 3+ shots on target is next in our bet builder, with the Frenchman looking to overtake Messi as the World Cup's most prolific marksman.
Alex Baena to commit 2+ fouls in the semi-final
While Alex Baena is known for his eye for a pass and tendency to create chances for his teammates, he's also built up a bit of a reputation for fouls this summer, and we're tipping him to commit at least two more when he takes on the World Cup favourites.
Expected to line up on the left-hand side for Spain, Baena will be tasked not only with tracking the marauding runs of Jules Kounde, but also helping out his full-back with the near impossible task of stopping Olise and Dembele - and we can see him getting caught out. With an average of well over two fouls committed per 90, the midfielder is one of Spain's most regular offenders, and with over 1.5 tackles won per 90, his defensive contribution - which will be so crucial here - is clear for all to see.
He'll hope to do his damage at the other end, but with Spain likely having to stop some electric France counter attacks, we're predicting Baena to commit 2+ fouls.
France to beat Spain and reach another World Cup final
Mbappe has arguably staked his claim for a first-ever Ballon d'Or this summer, with consistent, game-changing performances driving his country to this point, and with so much quality behind him, it's hard to see how anyone stops them. European champions Spain are obviously an excellent side, and have actually won three of their last four matches against France - including a 5-4 thriller in June 2025 - but this French team looks unstoppable, and their frightening goal threat is impossible to overlook.
So while it should be an excellent contest between two of the world's strongest sides, it's France who we're backing to progress to the final, handing Spain their first defeat inside 90 minutes since March 2024.
You can bet on each of these markets individually, or combine them to create a France vs Spain Bet Builder. Plus, with Bet Builder+, you can combine your bet not only with other World Cup matches, but also with different sports.
When is France vs Spain in the World Cup semi-finals?
France vs Spain takes place on Tuesday, 14 July, with kick-off for the semi-final scheduled for 20:00 BST.
How can I watch France vs Spain at the World Cup?
The World Cup match, France vs Spain, will be shown live on ITV and ITVX for UK viewers.
Can you bet on France vs Spain?
Ladbrokes are offering customers the chance to bet on a number of France vs Spain markets, including anytime goalscorer, both teams to score, and cards markets.
