The World Cup semi-finals are set, and the line-up reads like a football fan’s fever dream. On Tuesday, Spain face France; 24 hours later, defending champions Argentina take on England. Between the four sides, the talent is staggering: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane. With such riches, BBC Sport has challenged fans to pick a combined XI from the remaining quartet — and they’ve started the debate with their own selection.
The semi-finals promise a collision of styles and generations. Spain, buoyed by the electrifying 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, meet a France side spearheaded by the tournament’s breakout star Kylian Mbappe. Argentina lean on the enduring genius of Messi, while England boast the clinical finishing of Kane. Every position bristles with quality, making the task of choosing a single XI both impossible and irresistible.
“BBC Sport challenges fans to pick a combined XI from Spain, France, Argentina and England before the World Cup semi-finals.”
“And then there were four — and what a final four it is,” the BBC noted, inviting readers to make their own picks and comment on the choices. The broadcaster’s own lineup, illustrated alongside the article, sets a benchmark for the debate. Do you agree? The conversation is already running through the comments section.
For now, the only certainty is that two of these giants will fall before the final. As the world waits, the question echoes: who makes your semi-final dream team?