Football

Tonight's Euro 2024 semifinal clash between Spain and France promises to be a captivating encounter between two footballing powerhouses. Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions and three-time European champions, have been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, showcasing their trademark possession-based style and clinical finishing.In their quarterfinal clash against Germany, Spain faced their toughest test yet. Despite conceding a late equalizer, they displayed remarkable resilience and composure to secure a dramatic victory in extra time. Dani Olmo's opener and Mikel Marino's late header proved decisive, highlighting Spain's ability to control the game even under pressure.France, on the other hand, have not been as convincing in their performances. Star striker Kylian Mbappe, who suffered a broken nose in the opening match, has struggled to regain his top form. Despite their attacking struggles, France have relied on their defensive solidity and the experience of players like Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba to grind out results.The absence of Pedri, Spain's midfield maestro, due to a knee injury is a significant blow. However, the team's depth and collective spirit have been evident throughout the tournament. Gavi, Pedri's replacement, has impressed with his energy and creativity, while Sergio Busquets and Koke provide stability and experience in the midfield.All eyes will be on Mbappe tonight. If he can rediscover his World Cup-winning form, France will pose a serious threat to Spain's aspirations. However, Spain's dominance in possession and their ability to create chances from all over the pitch make them slight favorites.Regardless of the outcome, this semifinal clash promises to be a tactical battle between two of the world's best teams. The Allianz Arena in Munich will witness a spectacle of attacking brilliance and defensive resilience, as Spain and France vie for a place in the final.

Spain's hopes of conquering Euro 2024 have received a significant boost with the resurgence of Pedri Gonzalez. The Barcelona playmaker's return to form could prove pivotal in their challenging opening encounter against Luka Modric's formidable Croatia.Pedri's presence adds a Clasico flavor to the heavyweight clash in Berlin on Saturday. The 38-year-old Modric remains the talisman for his country, and his midfield duel with Pedri promises to be a captivating spectacle.Spain, Croatia, Italy, and Albania form Group B, widely regarded as the tournament's most competitive quartet. However, a resurgent Pedri could provide La Roja with the edge they seek.Pedri played a crucial role in Spain's run to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, but persistent hamstring injuries have hindered his progress since then. In the season's closing weeks and Spain's warm-up friendlies, Pedri has displayed encouraging signs of rediscovering his best form.Last week, he netted twice in an advanced role as Spain thrashed Northern Ireland 5-1 in their final warm-up match. This performance has sparked debate in Spain over Pedri's optimal position, but coach Luis de la Fuente believes he needs the Canary Islander to make a difference in the final third."We want him to play closer to the area, between the lines, taking advantage of the final ball. I think we can get a great deal from him," said De la Fuente, praising Pedri's resilience in overcoming his fitness struggles."I thank Pedri, he's an example of overcoming, effort, a school of values (in himself), he's important for everyone."De la Fuente has been a staunch supporter of Pedri, and the midfielder revealed that the coach would call him after every injury setback to offer encouragement. The coach believes Pedri's potential is limitless and urges him to continue improving."Pedri had to find himself, we don't know what his best version is because he's so good, he is infinite," added De la Fuente. "We coaches can give confidence to players, but it is the player who has to take the step forward."

Spain's Euro 2024 preparations received a major boost as they thrashed Northern Ireland 5-1 in their final friendly before the tournament. Pedri Gonzalez emerged as the star of the show, scoring twice to lead La Roja to a convincing victory.After a shaky start that saw Northern Ireland take an early lead, Spain quickly regained their composure and dominated the match. Pedri equalized with a low drive from the edge of the box, before Alvaro Morata headed Spain ahead. Pedri struck again after a neat move, and Fabian Ruiz headed home to make it 4-0.The second half was a more subdued affair, but Mikel Oyarzabal added a fifth goal for Spain after being set up by the impressive Lamine Yamal. The victory was a timely confidence boost for Luis de la Fuente's side, who face a tough group at Euro 2024.Pedri, who has been in excellent form in recent weeks, expressed his determination to make an impact at the tournament. "I've worked hard to be in good shape at the end of the season," he said. "We'll go for (the Euros), with the idea of winning."Spain's victory over Northern Ireland was their second in as many friendlies, having previously thrashed Andorra 5-0. They will now turn their attention to their opening Euro 2024 fixture against Croatia on June 15.

In a thrilling Champions League quarterfinal first leg, Barcelona emerged victorious over Paris Saint-Germain with a 3-2 triumph at Parc des Princes. Trailing 2-1, Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández's tactical substitutions proved decisive.Midfielder Pedri, introduced in the 61st minute, set up Raphinha for the equalizer within a minute. Two minutes later, central defender Andreas Christensen headed home from a corner to give Barcelona the lead.Raphinha, who opened the scoring in the first half, was Barcelona's standout performer. His lively display contrasted with a lackluster performance from PSG's Kylian Mbappé.PSG had taken the lead in the second half through Vitinha, but Barcelona's resilience and clinical finishing proved too much.In the other quarterfinal, Atlético Madrid defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1 at home. Rodrigo De Paul and Samuel Lino scored for Atlético, while Sébastien Haller netted a late consolation for Dortmund.The return legs of both quarterfinals will be played next Tuesday. Barcelona will host PSG in Spain, while Dortmund will welcome Atlético to Germany.

Barcelona's Champions League hopes have been dealt a significant blow with the news that midfielders Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are set to miss the second leg clash against Napoli due to injuries.De Jong suffered a right ankle sprain in Sunday's goalless draw at Athletic Bilbao, while Pedri picked up a new injury to his right hamstring. The club has not specified the duration of their absence, but both players could be out for more than a month.This is a major setback for Barcelona, who are already without Sergio Busquets due to suspension. Pedri and De Jong have been key figures in Xavi Hernandez's team this season, and their absence will be a significant blow to the team's chances of progressing in the Champions League.De Jong has been sidelined earlier this season with a right ankle injury, while Pedri has been plagued by right thigh problems. This is the third time Pedri has suffered a right thigh injury this season.Pedri is also expected to miss Spain's international friendlies against Colombia in London on March 22 and Brazil at Santiago Bernabeu four days later."They are two very influential players in our game, two very important players. We will miss them," said Xavi after the draw at Bilbao.Barcelona will host Napoli on March 12 in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, so the tie is finely poised.Without Pedri and De Jong, Barcelona will have to find a way to replace their creativity and energy in midfield. Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, and Riqui Puig are all options for Xavi, but none of them have the same experience or quality as Pedri and De Jong.The injuries to Pedri and De Jong are a major blow to Barcelona's hopes of winning the Champions League this season. The Catalans have not won the competition since 2015, and they will need to be at their best to overcome Napoli and progress to the quarter-finals.