Dallas, 14 July (H.S.):

France captain Kylian Mbappe did not take part in Monday's final training session in full ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Spain. However, the French team management clarified that his minor ankle injury is not serious and that he remains fully available for the crucial clash.

Mbappe sustained a slight ankle injury during France's quarter-final victory over Morocco last week. France secured a 2-0 win to book their place in the semi-finals, with Mbappe being substituted in the closing stages of the match as a precautionary measure.

During Monday's training session ahead of the semi-final, Mbappe participated only for a limited period. France head coach Didier Deschamps dismissed any concerns regarding the star forward's fitness.

Kylian is completely fine. He trained today. We simply reduced his workload slightly. While the other players spent 15 minutes on one of the drills, Mbappe participated for 10 minutes, Deschamps said.

Mbappe has been in outstanding form throughout the FIFA World Cup and has emerged as France's most influential match-winner. His availability for the semi-final against Spain is therefore seen as a significant boost for the French side.

The much-anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between France and Spain will be played on Tuesday, with the winners securing a place in the tournament's final.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar