The FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States is delivering unforgettable drama as the tournament reaches its business end. With France and Spain already booking their semi-final spots, all eyes were on Miami Stadium Saturday as England faced Norway in a pulsating quarter-final clash that had everything — brilliant goals, controversial VAR calls, and edge-of-the-seat tension.
England vs Norway: A Battle for the Ages
The quarter-final at Miami Stadium kicked off with Norway stunning the English early. Young winger Andreas Schjelderup lashed in a spectacular opener, putting the Scandinavian side ahead and silencing the pro-England crowd. Norway looked dangerous, with Erling Haaland causing constant problems for England’s backline.
But just before half-time, Jude Bellingham produced a moment of magic to level the score at 1-1. The Real Madrid superstar — who has been England’s talisman throughout the tournament — found the back of the net with a clinical finish to restore parity going into the break.
The second half saw Norway push hard, with Haaland having a goal controversially disallowed for a push on Elliot Anderson. Former England stars Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer, providing punditry on BBC, disagreed on the decision — with Rooney calling England “very fortunate” and saying “for me it’s not a foul.”
France March On Behind Mbappé Brilliance
Kylian Mbappé once again proved why he is the most feared player in world football, scoring a stunning winner to send France past Morocco and into the semi-finals. The French captain has embraced a leadership role throughout the tournament, urging his team to stay humble as they chase back-to-back World Cup titles.
Spain Edge Belgium in Dramatic Finish
Spain joined France in the semi-finals after a late Mikel Merino winner broke Belgian hearts. The match was a tense tactical battle that looked destined for extra time until Merino’s late strike sent the Spanish fans into raptures.
Switzerland and Argentina Set for Quarter-Final Showdown
Switzerland knocked out Colombia on penalties to set up a quarter-final meeting with Argentina, who survived a major scare against Cape Verde. Lionel Messi’s Argentina needed all their experience to get past the determined African side, who threatened what would have been one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history.
Major Off-Field News: Klopp to Germany, Pulisic Injury
In other massive news, Jurgen Klopp has reached an agreement to become the next head coach of the German national team. The charismatic German, who left Liverpool at the end of last season, will take charge of Die Mannschaft as they look to rebuild after a disappointing tournament.
Meanwhile, USMNT star Christian Pulisic suffered a leg fracture in the quarter-final loss to Belgium and will be sidelined for several weeks, a devastating blow for the tournament’s host nation.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
- Sunday, July 12: Argentina vs Switzerland (Quarter-Final)
- Wednesday, July 15: Semi-Final 1 — France vs TBD (20:00 BST)
- Wednesday, July 15: Semi-Final 2 — Spain vs TBD (20:00 BST)
- Saturday, July 18: Third Place Play-off
- Sunday, July 19: World Cup 2026 Final
FAQ
Q: Who has qualified for the World Cup 2026 semi-finals so far?
A: France and Spain have secured their semi-final spots. The remaining two spots will be decided by England vs Norway and Argentina vs Switzerland quarter-finals.
Q: When is the World Cup 2026 final?
A: The final will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at a venue to be confirmed.
Q: Could England face France in the semi-finals?
A: No — England and France are on opposite sides of the bracket. If England beat Norway, they would face the winner of Argentina vs Switzerland on July 15. France awaits the winner of the other half of the draw.