World Cup 2026 Heats Up: France Through to Semis as Quarterfinal Drama Unfolds Across the US
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is reaching its boiling point. With the quarterfinals in full swing across the United States, the tournament has already delivered shocks, masterclasses, and heartbreak — and we are not even at the semifinals yet.
France became the first team to book their spot in the last four after a commanding 2-0 victory over Morocco in Boston on July 9. Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé were on target as the defending finalists displayed the ruthless efficiency that has made them tournament favorites once again. Les Bleus look ominously good — solid at the back, lethal on the counter, and driven by a generational talent in Mbappé who seems to save his best for the biggest stage.
Today’s Blockbuster: Spain vs. Belgium
All eyes are on SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where European champions Spain take on a battle-hardened Belgium in today’s quarterfinal (3:00 PM ET, FOX / Telemundo).
Spain have been the tournament’s most complete side — unbeaten and yet to concede a single goal. Led by 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, Luis de la Fuente’s squad controls games through midfield with surgical precision. They swept past Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16 and have not looked troubled.
Belgium, meanwhile, are embracing the underdog role. After a stirring 3-2 comeback win over Senegal and a devastating 4-1 demolition of the United States, Rudi Garcia’s Red Devils are dangerous. Kevin De Bruyne remains the creative heartbeat, Charles De Ketelaere is in red-hot form, and Romelu Lukaku — now on eight career World Cup goals — is a weapon off the bench.
The winner faces France in the semifinals on July 14 in Dallas.
Saturday’s Doubleheader: Norway vs. England & Argentina vs. Switzerland
- Norway vs. England (July 11, 5:00 PM ET, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami) — Norway have been the story of the tournament, advancing deep for the first time with a dynamic squad led by Erling Haaland. England came in as pre-tournament favorites and have delivered, but facing Haaland-inspired Norway in Miami will test their nerve.
- Argentina vs. Switzerland (July 11, 3:00 PM ET, Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City) — Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in what is likely his final World Cup campaign, take on a disciplined Swiss side that eliminated Colombia on penalties. Argentina’s class is undeniable, but Switzerland have shown they can grind out results under pressure.
Semifinal Schedule & Road to the Final
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SF1: France vs. Spain/Belgium | Jul 14 | AT&T Stadium, Dallas | 3:00 PM |
| SF2: TBD vs. TBD | Jul 15 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | 3:00 PM |
| Third-Place Match | Jul 18 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami | 3:00 PM |
| 🏆 FINAL | Jul 19 | MetLife Stadium, New Jersey | 3:00 PM |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams have reached the 2026 World Cup semifinals so far?
France is the only confirmed semifinalist, after beating Morocco 2-0. The other three spots will be decided by the winners of Spain vs. Belgium, Norway vs. England, and Argentina vs. Switzerland.
Where can I watch the World Cup semifinals in the US?
Both semifinals air on FOX in English and Telemundo in Spanish. Streaming is available via the FOX Sports app, fubo, and Peacock (Spanish coverage).
What happens if a semifinal is tied after 90 minutes?
The match goes to 30 minutes of extra time. If still level, the winner is decided by a penalty shootout.
When and where is the World Cup 2026 Final?
The Final is on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Kick-off is 3:00 PM ET. It will be the first World Cup Final ever played on U.S. soil.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for the latest World Cup 2026 coverage, match results, and analysis as the tournament heads toward its thrilling conclusion on July 19.