Deschamps names Spain favourites ahead of World Cup semi-final
Didier Deschamps has identified Spain as the favourites to win the World Cup ahead of Tuesday’s semi-final clash. In separate developments, the Senegal Football Federation addressed internal tensions following the dismissal of head coach Pape Thiawe.

French national team coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed his assessment that Spain are the favourites to win the World Cup. The statement comes ahead of the semi-final fixture between France and Spain, scheduled for Tuesday, which offers the Spanish side the opportunity to secure a second global title.
Spain previously won the tournament in 2010. A victory in the upcoming semi-final would allow the team to add a second star to their shirt, marking their second World Cup triumph. Deschamps reiterated his earlier views that La Roja remain the most likely side to claim the trophy.
The semi-final match represents a significant milestone for both nations. For Spain, it is a chance to cement their status as a dominant force in international football. For France, the match is a critical step in their own campaign, with Deschamps acknowledging the strength of their opponents.
In separate administrative developments, the Senegal Football Federation held its first press conference since sacking head coach Pape Thiawe. The meeting provided new insights into the internal tensions that have surfaced within the organisation, though specific details regarding the nature of these disputes were not fully elaborated.
The press conference marked the first public address by the federation since the dismissal of Thiawe. The event highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the Senegalese football administration as it navigates leadership changes and internal organisational issues.
While the focus remains on the high-stakes semi-final in the World Cup, the developments in Senegal underscore the broader complexities within international football governance. The federation’s decision to hold a press conference suggests an effort to address these concerns publicly.
As the World Cup progresses, the semi-final between France and Spain will draw significant attention. Deschamps’ acknowledgment of Spain’s status as favourites sets the stage for a competitive encounter, while the situation in Senegal continues to unfold behind the scenes.


