So far at the 2026 World Cup, both netminders have been outstanding. Truth be told, however, the prolific talent in front of them and the masterful tactical plans devised by their coaches have made life much easier for both Maignan and Simon.

Until France and Spain cross paths in the semifinals, neither side has truly been put to the test at the 2026 World Cup. Simon and the Spaniards had to work hard to defeat Belgium in the quarterfinals, but aside from conceding their only goal of the tournament, the Red Devils never really put Spain against the ropes.

In more ways than one, the semifinals will be the litmus test for both goalkeepers. Whoever passes it will give his team a great chance of reaching the World Cup final.

Maignan’s stats at 2026 World Cup

Maignan wasn’t on France’s roster at the 2022 World Cup. Thus, he didn’t experience the heartbreak in Qatar, but is helping Mbappe and company avenge it, regardless. So far, so good, as Maignan has been one of the best goalkeepers in the tournament. He’s yet to be under siege, but he’s shown calm and safe hands when he needed to.

Through six games at the 2026 World Cup, Maignan has kept four clean sheets, allowing just two goals. Maignan has conceded no more than one goal in any match. However, Maignan has made only nine saves so far at the World Cup, ranking 25th among goalkeepers, according to FOX Sports, which underlines what’s been a relatively uneventful tournament for him. It’s easier said than done, but if he can maintain that form against Spain, France should be in a great position to advance.

With the likes of Mbappe, Dembele, Olise, and many more leading the attack, head coach Didier Deschamps’ side are virtually guaranteed to score in bunches. France have proved just that throughout the 2026 World Cup. However, they have yet to face a defensive unit as efficient as Spain’s, with Simon serving as the last line of defense if all else fails.

Simon’s stats at 2026 World Cup

From a purely statistical standpoint, Simon has been the best goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup. There’s no arguing that. His numbers speak for themselves. In fact, Simon set an all-time FIFA World Cup record by going 650 consecutive minutes without conceding a goal (dating back to the 2022 World Cup). Simon’s run was snapped by Charles De Ketelaere’s goal for Belgium in the quarterfinals. Still, it took nothing away from Simon’s achievement.

So far at the 2026 World Cup, Simon has put on a goalkeeping clinic. Spain have conceded only one goal in six games, with Simon keeping five clean sheets. However, he will face a test unlike any previous one when Spain take on the multi-headed monster that is France’s attack.

Many may argue Simon’s numbers are a product of his team’s play and the fact that he’s faced very few shots at the 2026 World Cup. According to FOX Sports, Simon has made only six saves at the tournament, even fewer than Maignan. Both goalkeepers have similar numbers, which underline the efficiency of their national teams and reflect the parity in this semifinal showdown.

Key facts about Maignan and Simon

This was supposed to be a team dominating Europe with names such as Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, Neymar, Marquinhos, Sergio Ramos, Gianluigi Donnnaruma and many others. However, the same old story for PSG. No big trophies to show for.

Now, with Messi’s possible return to Barcelona, the French clubmight enter another rebulding process. As we already know, money isn’t a problem. In an unexpected turn of events, PSGwill try to claim back a current star they discarded who is shining (guess where) in the Champions League.

PSG will pursue Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan

According to a report from Il Giornale, PSG are ready to pay at least $80 million for the French goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. Though Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived with extraordinary credentials after winning the 2021 Euro with Italy, his tenure with Paris Saint-Germain has been under scrutiny thanks to critical mistakes in big games at the Champions League.

In the case of Mike Maignan, the goalkeeper was formed in the youth categories of PSG. However, in 2015, the club sold him to Lille for just $1 million. You read well. A minimal amount for a superb player. Of course, Maignan had extraordinary performances and, in 2021, AC Milan signed him.

After arriving to AC Milan, Mike Maignan has become one of the best goalkeepers in the world and is the heir of Hugo Lloris with France’s national team. PSG regret that ‘million gift’ made a few years ago and is ready to offer a massive amount to bring him back.