France vs Spain: the lineups are in

France's setup

Didier Deschamps has gone with a 4-2-3-1, and Mike Maignan starts in goal — which, given the form AC Milan's keeper has shown at club level in recent seasons, feels like the right call rather than a surprise. The shape gives France defensive solidity through a double pivot while leaving room for their attacking talent to operate in the half-spaces behind the striker.

The 4-2-3-1 is a familiar Deschamps framework: hard to break down, capable of transitioning quickly, and built to absorb pressure before hitting on the counter. Against a Spain side that tends to dominate possession, that structure will be tested from the first whistle.

Spain's approach

Full details of Spain's starting eleven had not been confirmed by a second source at the time of writing, according to Foot Mercato — but Luis Enrique's side are expected to line up in their characteristic high-press, positional-play system. Spain's ability to suffocate opponents through pressing and recycling possession quickly makes them one of the most difficult sides to prepare for at this level.

The tactical matchup between France's compact mid-block and Spain's relentless pressing game is the thread that runs through every conversation about this fixture.

What to watch

Maignan's distribution will matter — France will need their goalkeeper to be a genuine sweeper-keeper if Spain's press pins their defenders back. In behind, France's wide attackers will look to exploit any space left by Spain's aggressive full-backs pushing high.

Spain, meanwhile, will want to drag France's double pivot out of position and find the pockets between the lines. If they can do that, the game opens up. If France hold their shape, it could go deep.

Two of European football's most decorated international programmes. One place in the World Cup final. Maignan didn't look nervous in the warm-up. He rarely does.