Alonso recently joined English Premier League (EPL) outfit Chelsea after parting ways with La Liga giants Real Madrid.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has said his home country, Spain, will beat France in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and eventually lift the trophy, arguing “they’re very strong”.
The former Real Madrid boss, who recently joined English Premier League (EPL) outfit Chelsea after parting ways with the La Liga giants, made the prediction during a recent interview with Chelsea’s official website, as quoted by Metro.
Spain must overcome 2022 runners-up France in the last-four tie to stand a chance of playing in the final of the tournament for the first time since 2010.
The reigning European champions beat Austria convincingly in the round of 32 and eliminated their fierce rivals, Portugal, in a tense last-16 clash.
In their quarter-final fixture against Belgium, the match appeared destined for extra time and potentially penalties, but Arsenal’s Mikel Merino netted a late winner, propelling Spain into the semi-finals.
They will now face an impressive Didier Deschamps’ side that has won all six of its World Cup games, scoring 16 goals while conceding only two in the process.
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Speaking on the eagerly anticipated tie, Alonso insisted Spain have “numerous reasons to be optimistic” as they face France.
He added that he is confident his fellow countrymen will lift the trophy for the second time in the country’s history.
“Watching all the Spain matches evokes many memories from the World Cup we won,” Alonso said.
The Spanish tactician added: “It is due to the team, the energy they exude, and their control over the games.
“We certainly have many reasons to be optimistic. Regardless of the outcome against France, it promises to be a fantastic match to witness, and I am genuinely looking forward to it.
“They possess a great team, and I can definitely see them winning this World Cup.”
The winners of the semi-final between Spain and France will face either Argentina or England in the final of this year’s tournament.
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