In just a few hours, the UEFA Euro 2024 semifinal stage will begin. Kicking off with the opening fixture is France who will be locking horns against the formidable Spain. Either side would be eager to win this knockout round as it gives the ticket to the finale. Yet, the biggest question that remains across the minds of ardent fans is whether Kylian Mbappe is playing tonight.

This inquiry comes after the Real Madrid star was subbed off in the previous fixture against Portugal just before the second half of the extra time. The match remained a stalemate throughout the 120 minutes as the 2018 World Champions eventually won 5-3. While many savored the victory, others were concerned about why Mbappe didn’t play until the end. It even raised suspicion about a potential injury.

However, the post-match saw no alarming updates regarding the 25-year-old’s injury. This suggests that Kylian Mbappe will play tonight against Spain. After all, the skipper has a duty to take his nation to the finals where they will be facing the winner of England vs Netherlands. But even though there remains a positive update regarding Mbappe, France will be forced to make one major change.

Mbappe’s new domestic teammate Eduardo Camavinga will be forced to miss tonight’s semi-final clash to serve his one-match suspension. The rest of the players are available at Deschamps’ disposal. While everything looks set for the 2016 Euro runner-ups, their rivals tonight are in a bit of a predicament.

Kylian Mbappe and France have a major advantage over limping Spain!

Unlike France, Spain is grappling with a lot of absentees. The biggest name to miss tonight’s clash is Pedri. The FC Barcelona star was subject to a tough challenge from Toni Kroos during the quarter-final clash against Germany with just three minutes into the kick-off. Despite getting medical attention, the midfielder was taken out within 10 minutes with Dani Olmo taking his place. Unfortunately, the woes don’t end here for Spain.

During the match, right-back Dani Carvajal was sent off with center-back Robin Le Normand also picking up his second yellow of the tournament. This keeps either of the defenders suspended for the semi-final match. Jesus Navas and Nacho Fernandez are expected to take their place tonight. Either way, the burden certainly remains on Luis de la Fuente to lead Spain with such absentees, which on the other hand, gives a major boost to France.

It remains to be seen if Kylian Mbappe and Co. can capitalize on Spain’s misery. Let the game begin!