Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has delivered a confident message ahead of his team's 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against France, insisting that Kylian Mbappé's star power will not intimidate La Roja. The 19-year-old Barcelona centre-back, speaking to AS, acknowledged the Real Madrid forward's quality but stressed that Spain will not be driven by fear.
Cubarsí Unfazed by Mbappé Threat
Despite being just 19, Cubarsí has already faced Mbappé several times since the French captain joined Real Madrid, giving him valuable experience against one of football's biggest stars. Mbappé has scored eight goals at the ongoing World Cup, leading the Golden Boot chart on assists ahead of Lionel Messi, according to beIN Sports. Cubarsí remarked: "He doesn't scare us, but everyone knows what he's capable of. Even if he's not fully in the game, he can turn it around in the blink of an eye. He's one of a kind, just like Lamine. We've got to stay alert for the full 90 minutes."
Dembele Also Identified as Major Danger
While much of the spotlight has been on Mbappé, Cubarsí warned that France possess several other attacking threats, singling out Ousmane Dembélé, whom he previously trained alongside at Barcelona. "I trained with him on a few occasions. You have to be on your guard because, as he's two-footed, he can come at you from either side," Cubarsí said. With Mbappé, Dembélé, and France's attacking depth, Spain know a single lapse in concentration could prove costly as both nations chase a place in the World Cup final.
Supercomputer Predicts France Edge Contest
Legit.ng previously reported that Opta's supercomputer slightly favoured France to progress, giving Les Bleus a 43.9% chance of victory compared to Spain's 29%, while 27.1% of 25,000 simulations ended in a draw. Victory would send Spain into their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010, while France would reach a second consecutive final. Both teams remain among the strongest contenders to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
