Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Spain take on France in a heavyweight battle in the first semi-final at Euro 2024, with the winner taking a place in the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July.
La Roja battled past hosts Germany in an entertaining quarter-final in Stuttgart, with a 119th-minute Mikel Merino header giving them their place in the last four after an enthralling game.
Les Bleus fared a little worse in their quarter-final, squeezing past Portugal on penalties after a 120-minute display that was often tepid, pedestrian and lacking in attacking threat.
Questions remain over whether Didier Deschamps can take this side – who have not scored an open-play goal of their own all tournament – into a fourth final of his tenure.
Luis de la Fuente’s impressive Spain side – who remain favourites to win the competition – lie in wait.
Follow all the latest updates from Spain v France below:
Spain have impressed at Euro 2024
Spain have only conceded two goals in Euro 2024, and aim reach their first major final since 2012 when they take on France in the semi-finals.
The Germans equalised through Florian Wirtz’s 89th minute goal but substitute Mikel Merino decided the contest thanks to a superb headed effort with just one minute of extra-time remaining.
La Rojas are the only team remaining to have won all five of their matches so far and look like the favourites to lift the trophy.
Mike Jones9 July 2024 13:07
Good afternoon!
Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Euro 2024 action as the semi-finals get underway with a blockbuster clash between Spain and France in Munich.
Spain have been one of the most entertaining teams at the tournament so far having won all of their games including a dramatic 2-1 victory over tournament hosts Germany in the quarter-finals.
France, in contrast, have struggled for rhythm but their defensive record is superb and has been a big factor in taking them through the competition. Wins against Belgium and Portugal in the knockout rounds – the latter via a penalty shootout – prove they remain a threat despite some lacklustre performances thus far and Spain will need to reach their highest level to get past them.
Awaiting the winner is the final on Sunday where they will face either England or the Netherlands who go head-to-head in their semi-final tomorrow evening.
We’ll have all the updates, team news and live match action throughout the day so stick with us as we build-up to kick off at 8pm.
Mike Jones9 July 2024 13:00