Frank Ribery's Legacy Looms as France Faces Spain in World Cup Semifinal

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Frank Ribery's iconic 2006 World Cup performance against Spain is remembered as France prepares to face Spain again in the 2026 World Cup semifinal on Tuesday, July 12, at Dallas Stadium.

In the 2006 World Cup round of 16, Frank Ribery scored a crucial goal as France defeated Spain 3-1. This memory adds depth to the upcoming semifinal clash.

The 2026 World Cup semifinal between France and Spain promises excitement, with France's high-scoring attack, led by Kylian Mbappe, facing Spain's resilient defense, which has conceded only one goal in five matches.

Spain leads the head-to-head record with 18 wins to France's 13, including a recent 5-4 victory in the 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinals. However, France's 2006 World Cup win over Spain remains a notable exception.

Opta gives France a 42.1% chance of winning in regulation time, compared to Spain's 31.8%. The match has a 26.1% chance of going into extra time, according to Al Jazeera.

U.S. viewers can watch the France vs. Spain semifinal on FOX, FS1, Telemundo, or Universo, with streaming options available on Fox One, the FOX Sports app, and Peacock.