The 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has delivered drama, controversy, and breathtaking football as the tournament reaches its knockout crescendo. With three semi-finalists already confirmed and the fourth spot being decided as Argentina battles Switzerland in Kansas City, here is your complete guide to the quarter-final action.
🏴 England 2-1 Norway (AET) – Bellingham the Hero
Thomas Tuchel’s England survived a fierce battle in the Miami heat to overcome a valiant Norway side 2-1 after extra time. Jude Bellingham once again proved why he is the most valuable player on the planet, scoring both of England’s goals in a man-of-the-match performance.
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup’s dipping effort deceived Jordan Pickford. But Bellingham responded instantly, leveling in first-half stoppage time with a clinical finish from Anthony Gordon’s pass. With the score locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Bellingham struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing on a rebound after Morgan Rogers’ shot was parried. Erling Haaland was largely subdued and was substituted at half-time in extra time as Norway’s World Cup dream came to an end.
Controversy also followed the match, with Norway protesting that the ball hit the spidercam before Bellingham’s first-half equalizer — though Snicko technology indicated no contact. England now stand one win away from their first men’s World Cup final since 1966.
🇪🇸 Spain 2-1 Belgium – Merino Does It Again
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino scored a dramatic 88th-minute winner against Belgium in Los Angeles, just 117 seconds after coming off the bench. It was the second consecutive knockout round where Merino has scored a late winner for Spain, having done the same against Portugal in the Round of 16.
Fabian Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute before Charles de Ketelaere equalized for Belgium just before half-time. The turning point came when Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off injured in the 71st minute, replaced by Manchester United’s Senne Lammens, who spilled a shot that allowed Merino to score the winner. Spain will face France in the semi-finals on Tuesday, July 14.
🇫🇷 France Advance Past Morocco – Mbappé Magic
Kylian Mbappé produced another moment of brilliance to send France past Morocco and into the semi-finals. His stunning strike broke Moroccan resistance and kept France on course for back-to-back World Cup titles. The Golden Boot race is heating up, with Mbappé and Lionel Messi both sitting on eight goals each.
🇦🇷 Argentina vs Switzerland – Quarter-Final Decider
As of late Saturday, Argentina and Switzerland are locked at 1-1 in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister headed Argentina in front, but Dan Ndoye equalized for the Swiss in the 67th minute. The winner will face England in Wednesday’s semi-final.
🗓️ Semi-Final Schedule
- Tuesday, July 14 – Spain vs France (Dallas, 20:00 BST)
- Wednesday, July 15 – England vs Argentina/Switzerland (20:00 BST)
- Sunday, July 19 – World Cup Final 🏆
⭐ Golden Boot Watch
The race for the Golden Boot is incredibly tight. Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi are level on eight goals, with both players still alive in the tournament. Jude Bellingham has also climbed the rankings after his brace against Norway. It’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling Golden Boot races in World Cup history.
❓ FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 semi-finals?
A: The matches are being broadcast live on BBC (UK), Fox Sports (USA), and various local broadcasters worldwide. All matches are also available via streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and Fubo.
Q: Which teams are the favorites to win the World Cup?
A: France remain the defending champions and have looked formidable throughout the tournament. England, Spain, and Argentina are also strong contenders, with the semi-finals promising top-quality football.
Q: When is the 2026 World Cup Final?
A: The final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup 2026 coverage, tech news, and the best deals on gaming and streaming gear to catch all the action!