Spain is a win away from making history as they can reach a World Cup final for the first time since 2010. Their semifinal match is against France at Dallas Stadium.
While the matchup is a close one, Spain is not the favorite for this game based on France's performances in the 2026 World Cup so far.
For Spain's national team starting XI, a big surprise is the exclusion of Pedri, who is one of the best midfielders in the world. This is the second straight game where Pedri is benched by his manager Luis de la Fuente.
Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images
Spain's starting lineup against France is the same one used for the quarterfinal match against Belgium last week.
Is Pedri Injured?
Pedri is not injured and is available to play for Spain against France today in the 2026 World Cup semifinal.
Pedri is replaced by Fabian Ruiz in the starting lineup, who is playing alongside Rodri in the midfield. Ruiz scored for Spain in their 2-1 win over Belgium in the quarterfinals last week.
In the Belgium game, Pedri came on the pitch in the second half. In the 55th minute, Pedri replaced Fabian Ruiz and played 40 minutes; something similar is expected today.
