Prediction for the starting lineup in the Euro semifinal: France vs Spain! Both sides have adjustments, Mbappé vs Yamal.

The Euro semifinal is about to kick off, with the opening clash between France and Spain. These two teams are widely recognized as top contenders for the title, and this match can be seen as a preview of the final. In the earlier quarterfinal, France defeated Portugal via penalties. Spain advanced to the semifinals thanks to Merino's header in extra time that sealed a victory over Germany. The two nations have faced each other four times in the European Championship, with France holding a slight advantage of two wins, one draw, and one loss. Their most recent encounter was in the 2012 Euro quarterfinal, where Spain won 2-0.

That was the era of Spain's golden generation, featuring legendary stars like "Xavi-Iniesta-Busquets," Alonso, Pique, Ramos, David Silva, who influenced an entire era. Although today's Spain may not be as dominant as that squad, it has produced several exciting young superstars, such as Yamal and Nico Williams. French football, on the other hand, has never lacked talent and consistently ranks among the world's elite. They won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final again in 2022, demonstrating their formidable and stable form.

However, at this stage of the competition, considerations extend beyond just squad strength; the outcome of the match is determined by multiple factors. Media outlets have predicted the starting lineups for both teams, let's take a look.

France:

Forward line: Mbappé, Thuram

Midfield: Griezmann, Rabiot, Tchouaméni, Kanté

Defense: Theo, Saliba, Upamecano, Konde

Goalkeeper: Maignan

The formation remains 4-2-3-1, with two changes compared to the previous match against Portugal. Rabiot returns from injury, replacing Camavinga in the starting lineup. Muani started last game but performed moderately, so Deschamps might opt for Thuram instead. Other positions remain unchanged, and there's no need for further adjustments.

Spain:

Forward line: Yamal, Morata, Nico Williams

Midfield: Fabián Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo

Defense: Navas, Nacho, Laporte, Cucurella

Goalkeeper: Unai Simón

Spain has three personnel changes, all forced. Carvajal is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards. Le Normand was substituted at halftime in the last match and hasn't participated in team training since, making his availability unlikely. Pedri has already left the Euros due to injury. Therefore, Navas will replace Carvajal, Nacho will take Le Normand's place, and Olmo will fill in for Pedri. Olmo scored after coming on as a substitute in the previous match, making this rotation reassuring. However, Navas is 38 years old and has only started once before, raising questions about his current form.

Spain's most potent threats remain their two young wingers. Yamal has already provided three assists, while Nico Williams has one goal and one assist. Both wingers are fast and possess strong dribbling abilities, which could suppress France's attacks on the flanks to some extent. Olmo in the central midfield also has the ability to push forward and score. France, meanwhile, will rely on Mbappé's explosiveness. Mbappé has scored only one goal (a penalty) in four matches so far; his form will directly impact the team's offensive performance.

Although both teams boast attacking talents, considering previous knockout matches, both need to prepare for a prolonged battle. The key will be who can seize limited opportunities and make fewer mistakes. Who will ultimately advance to the final? Let's wait and see!