France's path to a fifth World Cup final runs through a Spanish side that has conceded just once all tournament — a challenge that defender Ibrahima Konate says inspires respect, not fear, as the two European giants prepare for Tuesday's semi-final. Main Developments Speaking Sunday in Waltham, Konate acknowledged Spain's exceptional quality while insisting his squad won't be intimidated. "You cannot fear anyone," the centre-back told reporters. "We will now prepare as best as possible and hope the result in the end will favour us." Konate highlighted Spain's near-flawless backline, which has allowed only one goal en route to the last four. Fellow centre-back Maxence Lacroix echoed the sentiment: "I would not say 'fear' but we are conscious of their quality. They have won all their matches (except a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in the group), so we respect them." Read also: Why Sinner's Wimbledon Defense Proved Tactical Genius France's defensive pairing of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba has anchored a team that reached four of the last seven World Cup finals. But Konate, who made a brief substitute appearance in the group-stage win over Norway, stressed the need for humility. "We are staying humble, we won't fall into that trap," he said. Background France and Spain share a recent competitive history. The French lost to Spain in the Euro 2024 semi-finals and again in last year's Nations League semi-finals. France won the World Cup in 2018 and were finalists in 2022, while Spain are chasing their second world title. Spain's attack revolves around winger Lamine Yamal, who has drawn praise from his coach for occupying defenders and creating space for teammates. Konate called Yamal "a great player" but stressed the French won't focus on any single opponent. Why It Matters A win Tuesday would send France to the July 19 final in New York, sustaining comparisons with West Germany — the ultimate tournament nation with four finals between 1974 and 1990. For Spain, victory would mark a return to the World Cup final after a decade-long wait, testing their stingy defense against a French side that has consistently reached the sport's biggest stage. What's Next France must find a way to breach Spain's tournament-best defense while containing Yamal's wing runs. "We will defend well, the best," Lacroix said. "Lamine is a very good player and he has shown he can hurt teams at this World Cup. We will do the work that is needed." The semi-final kicks off Tuesday, with the winner advancing to face either Argentina or England in the final.