France are vying to become the third team to reach three successive World Cup finals, led by a front four spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe. Creatively, France are streets ahead as the tournament's second-highest scorers with 16 goals, posting the greatest xG value of 14.34. Their attacking variety makes them favorites, especially with Mbappe tied for the Golden Boot lead.

However, European champions Spain possess a unique ability to control and coerce. They have registered the most final-third passes, surpassing 1,000 with 83.9 per cent accuracy. While their creative edge has only appeared in flashes, their tactical supremacy and technical mastery under Luis de la Fuente make them a dangerous proposition.

Spain's progression depends on their midfield controllers. Rodri and Pedri must set the tone to starve France of the ball and facilitate vertical transitions for the Barcelona teen sensation, Lamine Yamal. While momentum is with Les Bleus, Spain's blend of ball retention and dynamic movement could foil the favorites in this high-stakes clash in Dallas.