Will Kylian Mbappe play against Spain? Didier Deschamps provides important fitness information ahead of the FIFA World Cup semi-finals

NEW DELHI: France coach Didier Deschamps downplayed concerns over Kylian Mbappe’s fitness and confirmed that the captain is expected to be available for the 2026 World Cup semi-final against Spain.Mbappe picked up a minor ankle injury during France’s 2-0 quarter-final win over Morocco but is not expected to miss the crucial clash.

Deschamps gives Mbappe fitness update

Ahead of the semi-final, Deschamps assured fans that the France captain was doing well despite the injury.“Kylian is fine,” said Deschamps.Mbappe missed France’s final training session after picking up a knock against Morocco. The forward, who was replaced at the end of the match, was reduced as a precaution.Deschamps explained his decision:“Yes, he trained. He can do 10 minutes in one exercise instead of 15.”The France captain was only partially involved in training but is not expected to be ruled out of the semi-final by injury.

France will face Spain in the semi-finals

France will take on a confident Spain, who reached the semi-finals after beating Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals.Spain are unbeaten in their last 36 matches and will look to continue that run by booking a place in the World Cup finals.The winner of the blockbuster semi-final will face either Argentina or England in the final on July 20.