"It is not about pressing constantly — it is about pressing intelligently." Oliver Kahn doesn't deal in vague punditry. The former Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper has a clear read on what separates the 2026 World Cup semi-finalists from everyone else who went home early: midfield control.
Kahn, who remains the only goalkeeper in history to win the Golden Ball at a World Cup — earning it at the 2002 edition — is now one of the sharpest analysts in the game. And his verdict ahead of the last four? France are the most complete side, but the margins are thin enough that any of the four can win it.
"They look the most complete side in terms of balance, depth and their ability to win games in different ways," he said of France. "But the margins between these four teams are extremely small."
What Spain need to do against France
France face Spain in the first semi-final at Dallas Stadium on Wednesday, and Kahn's advice to Spain is straightforward: don't chase the game, control it.
"Spain have to stay patient but purposeful. They need to move the ball quickly, create overloads and maintain strong defensive balance because France is one of the best teams in transition."
That last part is the key warning. France in transition is a nightmare — Kylian Mbappé in open space is a different equation to solving a settled defensive block. Spain's ability to dominate possession and suffocate transitions is their best weapon, but any lapse in defensive shape could be fatal. France's odds as favourites aren't going anywhere based on that reality.
Kahn also pointed to mentality as the final separator. "The best teams stick to their game plan. They don't panic, stay emotionally disciplined and continue making good decisions under pressure." That sounds simple. Under World Cup semi-final pressure, it rarely is.
The goalkeeper factor — and the Messi-Ronaldo aside
Kahn made a point about modern goalkeepers that carries real weight given where we are in the tournament. "One good decision, or one mistake from a goalkeeper, can completely change the outcome." With games potentially heading to extra time and penalties, that observation is less philosophical analysis and more direct warning to the four remaining keepers.
He also touched on Messi and Ronaldo — Portugal have already been eliminated, but the rivalry clearly still draws questions. "Their rivalry was never based on words, but on performances. Every season, they've pushed each other to be even better." With Argentina facing England in the second semi-final, Messi's chapter at this tournament is still being written. Ronaldo's, for now, is closed.
- Semi-final 1: France vs Spain — Dallas Stadium, Wednesday
- Semi-final 2: Argentina vs England
- Kahn's pick: France, with caveats
"Soccer may never again see another rivalry with that level of consistency and excellence" — Kahn on Messi and Ronaldo. High praise. But right now, both of them would trade every individual accolade for what's on the table over the next week.
