France defender Ibrahima Konaté has responded calmly to comments made by Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal ahead of their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, insisting that Les Bleus are not afraid of anyone.
The build-up to the clash intensified after Yamal suggested that if any team should be worried, it was France, pointing to Spain’s victories over the French in their last two meetings, including the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final and the 2025 UEFA Nations League.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Konaté refused to be drawn into a war of words.
“He can say whatever he wants. We’ll prepare in the best way possible, and at the end of the match, we’ll see who it works out for,” the former Liverpool centre-back said.
Asked whether France feared Spain, Konaté gave a firm response.
“No, no, no. Honestly, we don’t pay attention to what’s being said. We shouldn’t fear anyone. We have to stay humble and not fall into that trap, especially at this stage of the tournament.”
The 27-year-old also stressed that France’s focus is on the entire Spanish team rather than just Yamal, who has become one of the world’s brightest young talents.
Spain, the reigning European champions, have impressed throughout the World Cup and remain among the favourites to lift the trophy.
France, however, have also enjoyed a strong campaign under Didier Deschamps.
Led by experienced stars and a disciplined defence featuring Konaté, they have navigated a difficult route to reach the last four and are aiming to book another World Cup final appearance.
Meanwhile, Yamal has remained confident but insisted football should bring people together as Spain prepare for what he described as the biggest match of his career.
The winner of the semi-final will advance to the World Cup final, where they will face the victor of the other last-four encounter, Argentina or England.
