France stays grounded ahead of World Cup semifinal vs Spain

France will face Spain in a World Cup semifinal in Dallas on Tuesday, with a place in the July 19 final in New York at stake. The match pits the tournament's two statistical favorites against each other, with France seeking a second consecutive World Cup final appearance and Spain aiming for their first since winning the title in 2010.

French defender Ibrahima Konate emphasized his team's focus and lack of fear ahead of the clash, stating that France must remain grounded. "You cannot fear anyone," Konate told a press conference. "We will now prepare as best as possible and hope the result in the end will favour us." He acknowledged Spain's exceptional quality but insisted the French strategy would not revolve around containing any single player, including teenage winger Lamine Yamal. "Spain are an exceptional team, with a lot of individual quality, so we won't be focusing on just one player even though Lamine Yamal is a great player," Konate added.

Spain enters the match with a formidable defensive record, having conceded only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Their knockout-stage pedigree is equally impressive, having won their last seven such matches at major...