India, July 13 -- The France-Spain semi-final on Tuesday night promises a technical and tactical showdown. For France talisman Kylian Mbappe, this is a grand opportunity to clear two hurdles and establish himself as the biggest brand in football.

With Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, fading away after his dream to become a World Cup winner with Portugal crashed, and Lionel Messi, 39, expected to walk into the sunset when Argentina - they play England in the other semis on Wednesday night - are done with the tournament, there will be space to occupy at the pinnacle of popularity in the global game.

Mbappe is only 27 and as the spearhead of France's formidable frontline has already scored eight goals - he is level with Messi in the race for the Gol...