The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its business end with four powerhouses remaining. Argentina will face England while France take on Spain in a mouth-watering pair of semi-finals following a captivating quarter-final round across North America.
Argentina Edge Past Switzerland in Extra-Time Thriller
Reigning champions Argentina booked their semi-final spot with a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over a valiant Switzerland side in sweltering Kansas City. Julian Alvarez was the hero, curling a stunning 25-yard effort past Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel in extra time to break Swiss hearts.
The match was not without controversy. Swiss striker Breel Embolo was reduced to tears after receiving a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review. The decision sparked outrage from Switzerland, who had been the better side for long spells. Embolo had initially appeared to be fouled by Leandro Paredes, but replays showed the striker had clearly simulated contact.
Argentina had taken an early lead through Alexis Mac Allister, who flicked home Lionel Messi’s corner at the near post after just 10 minutes. However, Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye equalised for the Swiss with a clinical finish through the legs of Emiliano Martinez.
Despite an underwhelming performance — Argentina went nearly 90 minutes without another shot on target — their firepower eventually told. Lautaro Martinez added a second on the counter-attack to seal the win.
Lionel Messi, while failing to score for the first time this tournament, added yet another record to his collection, becoming the first man to register 10 assists in World Cup matches. Argentina also set a new World Cup record for most consecutive matches scoring multiple goals (11), surpassing Uruguay’s run from 1930-1954.
England Beat Norway to Set Up Argentina Clash
England secured their place in the last four with a 2-1 victory over Norway in Miami. Thomas Tuchel’s side will now face the reigning champions in what promises to be a blockbuster semi-final.
Semi-Final Line-Up Confirmed
The four remaining teams will battle for a place in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New York.
Semi-Final 1: France vs Spain
– Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
– Venue: Dallas Stadium, Texas
– Kick-off: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET
Semi-Final 2: Argentina vs England
– Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
– Venue: Atlanta Stadium, Georgia
– Kick-off: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET
The Final
– Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
– Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium)
– Kick-off: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET
Key Storylines to Watch
Can Messi lead Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles? The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been in inspired form throughout the tournament, contributing goals and assists. England, under Thomas Tuchel, have shown resilience and tactical discipline and will fancy their chances against an Argentine side that has looked vulnerable despite winning.
In the other semi, France — runners-up in 2022 — face European champions Spain in a rematch of their epic 2024 Euro semi-final. Both sides boast incredible depth and attacking talent, with Kylian Mbappé looking to lead France to redemption while Spain’s young core aims for a second major title in two years.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the World Cup semi-finals?
A: Argentina vs England will be broadcast on BBC One in the UK and Fox Sports in the US. France vs Spain will be shown on ITV and Fox Sports. Both matches kick off at 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET.
Q: When is the 2026 World Cup final?
A: The final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Kick-off is at 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET.
Upcoming Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 14 Jul | France vs Spain — Semi-Final 1 | Dallas Stadium | 20:00 |
| Wed 15 Jul | Argentina vs England — Semi-Final 2 | Atlanta Stadium | 20:00 |
| Sun 19 Jul | World Cup Final | New York NJ Stadium | 20:00 |
Which semi-final are you most excited about? Will Messi add a second World Cup to his legacy, or can England finally bring it home? Drop your predictions in the comments!