Confirmed Mbappe sets record as Real Madrid duo start for France

As the sun dips over Dallas Stadium, the roar of the crowd swells for the first semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where France will meet Spain in just over an hour. Manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed a starting XI that features captain Kylian Mbappe and midfield partner Aurelien Tchouameni, marking a historic moment for the French side. Mbappe’s start pushes him to 21 World Cup appearances, the most by any French player, surpassing goalkeeper Hugo Lloris’s previous record of 20. The forward has been a permanent fixture in Les Bleus’ starting XI throughout the tournament. Aurelien Tchouameni returns to the midfield, replacing Manu Kone and forming a central partnership with Adrien Rabiot. Deschamps confirmed the change ahead of kickoff, reinforcing the French midfield for the clash.

Scorching Dallas heat tests Mbappé as France eye World Cup semi‑final

Real Madrid’s Galactico summer target Michael Olise earns a spot on the right flank for France, while fellow Real Madrid signing Ibrahima Konate stays on the bench. Both players are part of the club’s recent recruitment drive. Both Tchouameni and Mbappe will line up opposite their new Real Madrid teammate Marc Cucurella, who starts at left‑back for Spain in the semifinal. The encounter pits the Galactico’s defensive talent against the French attack. Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions, will aim to replicate past glory against a French side eager to progress to the final. The match could define the legacy of the French record‑breaker and the impact of Real Madrid’s new stars on the international stage.