The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as we enter the business end of the tournament. With France and Spain already securing their semi-final places, all eyes turn to Miami today where England take on Norway in what promises to be a blockbuster quarter-final clash.
Quarter-Final Action So Far
France 2-0 Morocco
Kylian Mbappé produced another moment of magic to send France into the semi-finals, smashing a stunning strike past Morocco’s goalkeeper to break the deadlock. The French superstar, widely considered the best player in the world, added a second to seal a comfortable victory. Les Bleus continue to look like strong contenders for back-to-back World Cup titles after their 2022 triumph in Qatar.
Spain 2-1 Belgium
Spain snatched a dramatic late winner against Belgium to set up a mouth-watering semi-final clash with France. La Roja dominated possession as expected but found Belgium a tough nut to crack until a late breakthrough. The win extends Spain’s remarkable run in the tournament and sets up a classic European showdown in the semi-finals.
England vs Norway — Today’s Showdown (July 11)
Thomas Tuchel’s England face their biggest test yet against a Norway side led by the tournament’s most feared striker — Erling Haaland.
England have looked solid but unspectacular so far, and Tuchel has been working overtime on a tactical plan to neutralize Haaland, who has been in devastating form. The Chelsea legend-turned-manager acknowledged the threat, saying: “Cutting off Haaland is key, but Norway are not just a one-man team.”
England fans have descended on Miami in their tens of thousands, turning the city into a sea of white and red. The match represents a genuine crossroads — can England’s golden generation finally deliver on the biggest stage, or will Haaland’s Norway continue their fairytale run?
Key Match-Ups to Watch
- Haaland vs England’s Defense: Can John Stones and Marc Guéhi contain the Manchester City machine?
- Jude Bellingham vs Martin Ødegaard: Two Real Madrid legends going head-to-head in midfield
- Tuchel’s Tactics vs Norway’s Free-Flowing Attack
Argentina and Switzerland Complete Quarter-Final Picture
Argentina narrowly edged past Cape Verde in a thriller that showed both the heart and the flaws of Messi’s final World Cup campaign. La Albiceleste will face Switzerland, who shocked Colombia on penalties to reach the quarter-finals.
Christian Pulisic Injury
In sadder news, USMNT star Christian Pulisic has been ruled out for several weeks after suffering a leg fracture in the USA’s Round of 16 loss to Belgium. The AC Milan winger was stretchered off in what proved to be a heartbreaking end to America’s World Cup journey.
FAQ
Q: When is the England vs Norway match?
A: The match kicks off on Saturday, July 11, 2026 in Miami, Florida.
Q: Who plays who in the semi-finals?
A: France vs Spain is confirmed for one semi-final. The winner of England vs Norway will face the winner of Argentina vs Switzerland in the other semi.
Q: When is the World Cup 2026 final?
A: The final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
| Date | Match | Stage |
|---|---|---|
| July 11 | England vs Norway | Quarter-Final |
| July 12 | Argentina vs Switzerland | Quarter-Final |
| July 14 | Semi-Final 1 (France vs Spain) | Semi-Final |
| July 15 | Semi-Final 2 | Semi-Final |
| July 18 | 3rd Place Play-Off | Play-Off |
| July 19 | World Cup 2026 Final | Final |
