Oyarzabal’s value extends beyond finishing. His ability to connect midfield with the forwards can help Spain sustain possession higher up the pitch, particularly against France’s athletic defensive line.
That role could be important if Spain seek to control the semi-final through long spells of possession rather than relying on transitions.
Lamine Yamal appears set to retain his place after becoming a regular starter following Spain’s opening match. His continued presence gives the team an established outlet on the flank and preserves an attacking partnership that has developed during the tournament.
The report also describes a defence that has become more settled, with Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte forming the preferred centre-back pairing and Pedro Porro moving ahead of Marcos Llorente at right-back. That continuity could be as important as Spain’s attacking selection against France.
Mikel Merino is reportedly likely to begin on the bench, but his influence has grown sharply in the knockout rounds. The update says he has scored the winning goal in Spain’s past two knockout matches, making him an obvious second-half weapon.
His ability to arrive late in the box offers Spain a different threat if the match becomes stretched. Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino are also expected to provide attacking depth from the substitutes’ bench.
The next test is whether Spain’s reported balance can withstand France’s pressure. Oyarzabal’s starting role, Yamal’s continuity and Merino’s late impact could define the tactical story of the semi-final.