The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its most exhilarating stage with the semi-finals now confirmed. After an electrifying round of quarter-final clashes across the United States, four footballing powerhouses — France, Spain, England, and Argentina — remain standing in the race for global supremacy.
Quarter-Final Recap: Drama and late heroics
France 2-0 Morocco
Kylian Mbappé delivered a stunning strike to break Moroccan resistance and send the defending champions into the semi-finals. France remained solid at the back and clinical when it mattered most, proving once again why they are tournament favourites.
Spain 2-1 Belgium
In a heart-stopping encounter in Los Angeles, supersub Mikel Merino struck again — literally minutes after coming on. The Real Sociedad midfielder pounced on a spilled shot from Belgium’s replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens (after Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury) to smash home an 88th-minute winner. It was the third consecutive knockout game in which Merino had scored a decisive late goal, following his heroics against Germany at Euro 2024 and Portugal in the Round of 32. Fabián Ruiz had earlier put Spain ahead before Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium.
England 2-1 Norway
Jude Bellingham proved indispensable once again, scoring twice to guide England past a brave Norway side led by Erling Haaland. The Real Madrid star’s resurgence at this World Cup has been remarkable, with his two goals in Miami ensuring England’s path to the semi-finals remains alive.
Argentina 1-0 Switzerland
Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to head Argentina into a semi-final showdown against England. Lionel Messi, now on eight goals for the tournament and level with MbappĂ© in the Golden Boot race, orchestrated Argentina’s attack from Kansas City. Switzerland, who had knocked out Colombia on penalties in the Round of 16, defended valiantly but lacked the firepower to trouble Emiliano MartĂnez.
Semi-Final Fixtures (All times BST)
- Tuesday 14 July — 20:00: France vs Spain (Semi-Final 1)
- Wednesday 15 July — 20:00: England vs Argentina (Semi-Final 2)
- Saturday 18 July — 22:00: Third Place Play-off
- Sunday 19 July — 20:00: World Cup 2026 Final
Other Major Talking Points
Klopp to Germany: In a blockbuster managerial move, JĂĽrgen Klopp has reportedly reached an agreement to take over as Germany head coach, replacing Julian Nagelsmann after the team’s disappointing World Cup exit at the hands of Paraguay in the Round of 32.
Pulisic injury blow: Christian Pulisic suffered a leg fracture during USA’s defeat to Belgium and will be sidelined for several weeks, casting a shadow over the co-hosts’ campaign.
Balogun controversy: FIFA officials faced intense scrutiny after US striker Folarin Balogun’s red card ban was controversially suspended, with even US President Trump weighing in on the decision.
FAQ
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 semi-finals?
The matches are being broadcast globally through official FIFA broadcasters. In the UK, BBC and ITV are sharing coverage. In the US, Fox Sports and Telemundo have the rights.
Who are the favourites to win the tournament?
France enter as defending champions with a strong case, but Argentina’s Messi-driven campaign and England’s balanced squad make this one of the most open semi-final lineups in recent memory.
When and where is the final?
The World Cup 2026 final will be played on Sunday, 19 July at a venue yet to host the final, with MetLife Stadium in New Jersey among the frontrunners.