The 2026 FIFA World Cup is delivering unforgettable drama as the quarter-finals reach their climax. With France and Spain already booking semi-final spots, all eyes turn to Saturday’s blockbuster clash between England and Norway — where Harry Kane and Erling Haaland go head-to-head for a place in the last four.
Spain 2-1 Belgium: Merino’s Late Heroics
Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s unlikely hero, scoring a dramatic late winner to send La Roja past a valiant Belgium side 2-1 and into the World Cup semi-finals. The match was finely poised at 1-1 when Merino struck in the 83rd minute, sparking wild celebrations in the Spanish camp.
Belgium’s hopes were dealt a devastating blow early when star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury — a loss that proved pivotal. Without their commanding shot-stopper, Belgium struggled to contain Spain’s relentless pressure in the second half.
Spain will now face France in the semi-finals after Didier Deschamps’ men cruised past Morocco 2-0, with Kylian Mbappé delivering another masterclass performance. The French captain has been in imperious form throughout the tournament, cementing his status as the face of this World Cup.
England vs Norway: The Haaland Problem
Thomas Tuchel’s England face perhaps their toughest test yet as they prepare to contain Erling Haaland. The Norwegian superstar has been unstoppable at this World Cup, scoring seven goals in four matches — including match-winners in every game he has played.
“You can’t avoid focusing on him,” Tuchel admitted ahead of the quarter-final. “He is a generational talent. If you give him half a chance, he will punish you.”
England captain Harry Kane, with six goals of his own at the tournament, has been equally prolific. The Bayern Munich striker has silenced critics who once called him the “nearly man,” now leading the line with authority and an eye on the Golden Boot.
The Kane vs Haaland narrative adds an extra layer to what is already a mouth-watering quarter-final. Both strikers are in the form of their lives, and the winner will likely decide which nation advances to the semi-finals.
Argentina Edge Through; Switzerland Stun Colombia
Argentina showed heart but also exposed vulnerabilities in their narrow escape against a spirited Cape Verde side, eventually progressing to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals. The Swiss, meanwhile, caused one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by knocking out Colombia on penalties in a dramatic shootout.
With France and Spain already through, the bracket is taking shape for an unforgettable semi-final round.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
- July 11 — England vs Norway (Quarter-Final)
- July 12 — Argentina vs Switzerland (Quarter-Final)
- July 14 — Spain vs France (Semi-Final)
- July 15 — Winner QF3 vs Winner QF4 (Semi-Final)
- July 19 — World Cup 2026 Final 🏆
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for Spain against Belgium?
Mikel Merino scored the winner in the 83rd minute, completing Spain’s comeback after Belgium had equalized earlier in the second half.
How many goals has Erling Haaland scored at the 2026 World Cup?
Haaland has scored seven goals in four matches at the 2026 World Cup, scoring the match-winner in every game he has played (he was rested against France in the group stage).
When is the World Cup 2026 final?
The World Cup 2026 final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The semi-finals take place on July 14 and 15.