France take on Spain in 2026 World Cup’s first semifinal: Live updates

It is hard to believe now, as Spain prepare for their second World Cup semi-final, that their campaign began with their involvement in one of the tournament’s most memorable scorelines — for all the wrong reasons.

It was not a defeat, but a goalless draw with minnows Cape Verde in their opening group game raised concerns about Spain’s ability to create and convert chances.

A 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia allayed some of those fears before a 1-0 victory against Uruguay secured top spot in Group H.

Spain comfortably saw off Austria 3-0 in the round of 32, but needed late goals to beat Portugal 1-0 and Belgium 2-1 in the last 16 and quarter-finals respectively. Mikel Merino was the match-winner on both occasions.