Spain will face France's Yamal in the World Cup semi-final; Spain emphasizes they are not afraid of challenges.

After eliminating Belgium in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup, Spain will face France, another title favorite, in the semifinals. Barcelona winger Yamal stated in an interview that the team is on the field to win and emphasized that the "Matadors" are not afraid of France.

In the match against Belgium, Pedro Polo made a cross into the penalty area in the 30th minute, and Olmo's shot was saved by Belgian goalkeeper Courtois. Fabian Ruiz then scored on the rebound, giving Spain a 1-0 lead.

In the 41st minute, Castagne received a through ball from De Bruyne and delivered another cross, which De Ceftrare headed into the goal, helping Belgium equalize the score at 1-1.

In the 88th minute of the second half, Pedri passed the ball to Pau Kubalsi, whose shot was saved by Belgian goalkeeper Lamens. Merino then followed up and scored, giving Spain a 2-1 lead. Ultimately, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1, securing their place in the semi-finals.

In addition, Deschamps' France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup quarterfinals, thanks to goals from Mbappe and Dembele, and successfully advanced to the semifinals.

In head-to-head records, Spain has won two and lost one of their last three matches against France in all competitions, giving them a psychological advantage.

"There are two possibilities now, either they reach the World Cup final three times in a row, or we beat them three times in a row. I don't know what will happen, but we are not afraid at all," said 18-year-old Yamar.

“I’m really happy to have won this match and made it to the semi-finals again, which is exactly what we were aiming for. Now we need to rest well and then start preparing for the match against France.”

Yamar continued, "Of course I hope to score goals, because scoring goals can help the team, but I don't only have that thought when I step onto the field."

"If we ultimately win the World Cup, I don't think anyone will remember how many goals I scored or how many chances I missed. Everyone will be happy as long as the team wins. If I can also get the Man of the Match award, that would be even better, but the most important thing is that the team wins."

In addition, Yamal said, "I know my running will attract a lot of opposing defenders, thus creating space for my teammates. Most importantly, we came here to win the championship. No matter how I help the team, even if I don't touch the ball in an attack, as long as I can help the team, that's a good thing."

"I think everyone is too focused on scoring goals. When we won the European Championship, I only scored one goal. So far in this World Cup, I've also scored one goal. So, there's absolutely no need to worry."

Image source: Internet