Ahead of the 2026 World Cup semifinal clash, Spain are the fifth most frequently encountered opponent in France’s history, a rivalry filled with both glorious and bitter moments.

Lamine Yamal (L) vies for the ball with Kylian Mbappe in the 2024 Euro semifinal between Spain and France in Allianz, Munich, Germany, July 9, 2024. Photo by AFP

According to French football history website Chroniques Bleues, the two teams have met a total of 38 times. The first encounter took place in 1922, when France suffered a heavy 0-4 defeat.

The tie currently favors Spain with 18 wins, while France have won 13 times, and there have been 7 draws.