The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final four. After a thrilling month of football across North America, only four nations remain standing: France, Spain, England, and Argentina. The semifinals are set to deliver two blockbuster matchups as the tournament heads into its decisive week.
Quarterfinals Recap: The Road to the Semifinals
The quarterfinal round delivered drama, upsets, and moments of brilliance:
- France 2-0 Morocco — Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé powered Les Bleus past a stubborn Morocco side at Boston Stadium, booking the first semifinal spot.
- Spain 2-1 Belgium — Mikel Merino scored an 88th-minute winner in Los Angeles after Fabian Ruiz’s opener was cancelled out by Charles De Ketelaere’s equalizer.
- England 2-1 Norway (AET) — England needed a stoppage-time equalizer and a Jude Bellingham extra-time winner to survive a spirited Norway side at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami.
- Argentina 3-1 Switzerland — Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez all scored to seal Argentina’s semifinal berth in a dominant display.
Semifinals Matchups & Schedule
The stage is set for two mouthwatering clashes that will determine who plays in the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Tuesday, July 14 — France vs Spain
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas (Dallas)
Kickoff: TBD ET
France, the 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up, continue to look formidable. Mbappé has been in electric form, and Didier Deschamps’ side has conceded just one goal across the entire knockout stage. Spain, meanwhile, have quietly built momentum with their trademark possession game, brushing aside Belgium in a tightly-contested quarterfinal. This is a rematch of the 2024 EURO semifinal where Spain triumphed — France will be seeking revenge.
Wednesday, July 15 — England vs Argentina
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
Kickoff: TBD ET
This is arguably the most anticipated matchup of the entire tournament. England, led by the brilliance of Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, have shown resilience and flair in equal measure. Argentina, the reigning champions from 2022, have Lionel Messi still pulling the strings in what could be his final World Cup campaign. A clash between two footballing titans with generations of history behind them.
The Road to the Final
The winners of each semifinal will meet on Sunday, July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, for the World Cup Final. A third-place playoff between the losing semifinalists will be held on July 18 at the same venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the 2026 World Cup semifinals?
In the United States, all matches are broadcast live on FOX and streamed on Fubo (free trial available). International broadcasters vary by region.
Which teams are favorites to win the World Cup?
France and Argentina enter as slight favorites given their recent pedigree, but Spain’s tactical discipline and England’s depth make this one of the most open semifinal rounds in recent World Cup history.
When is the 2026 World Cup Final?
The final will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Upcoming Matches Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 14 | France vs Spain | AT&T Stadium, Dallas | Semifinal 1 |
| July 15 | England vs Argentina | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | Semifinal 2 |
| July 18 | Third-Place Playoff | MetLife Stadium, NJ | 3rd Place |
| July 19 | World Cup Final | MetLife Stadium, NJ | Final |
Photo by Casey Lee on Unsplash