The 2026 FIFA World Cup is down to its final four after dramatic quarter-final encounters. Argentina edged past Switzerland, England rallied past Norway, and both France and Spain booked their spots. Heres everything you need to know about the semi-final week in the United States.
Quarter-Final Recap: Drama, Controversy, and Brilliance
🇦🇷 Argentina 2-1 Switzerland 🇨🇭 (AET) – Kansas City
The reigning world champions survived a major scare against a determined Swiss side in sweltering Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister flicked home Lionel Messis corner in the 10th minute to give Argentina an early lead, but Switzerland grew into the game and deservedly equalized through Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye, who cut in from the left and finished through the legs of Emiliano Martinez after 67 minutes.
The game turned in dramatic fashion when Swiss striker Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review. The referee was called to the monitor under the mistaken identity rule and determined Embolo had dived. Reduced to 10 men, Switzerland defended valiantly but were ultimately undone by a moment of pure genius from Julian Alvarez, who curled an unstoppable 25-yard effort past Gregor Kobel in extra time. Lautaro Martinez added a third on the counter to seal it.
🇳🇴 Norway 1-2 England 🏴 (AET) – Miami
In a grueling quarter-final played in fierce heat and humidity, England found themselves behind after 36 minutes when Andreas Schjelderups dipping effort beat Jordan Pickford. But Jude Bellingham produced yet another talismanic display, equalizing in first-half stoppage time with a perfectly-taken finish from Anthony Gordons pass.
Norway pushed hard after the break – Erling Haaland had a goal ruled out for a shove, and David Moller Wolfe headed against the bar. But Bellingham struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing after Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland could only parry a Morgan Rogers shot. England now stand one win from their first mens World Cup final since 1966.
France & Spain Progress
European champions Spain set up a mouth-watering clash against 2022 runners-up France in the other semi-final. Both sides advanced through their quarter-final ties and will meet in Dallas in what promises to be a tactical masterclass.
Semi-Final Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (BST) |
| Spain vs France 🇪🇸🇫🇷 | Tue 14 July | Dallas | 20:00 |
| Argentina vs England 🇦🇷🏴 | Wed 15 July | Atlanta | 20:00 |
The winners will meet in the World Cup Final on Sunday, 19 July at the New York New Jersey Stadium (20:00 BST).
Key Storylines
Messis Final Dance?
The Argentine legend has already made history – becoming the first man to register 10 assists in World Cup matches – and is chasing back-to-back World Cup titles. Can he lead Argentina past a resurgent England side?
Bellinghams Golden Run
The Real Madrid superstar has been Englands driving force, scoring twice against Norway. With Declan Rice battling illness and injury, England will need their talisman more than ever.
Tactical Chess Match – Spain vs France
Both sides boast incredible technical quality. Spains possession game meets Frances devastating counter-attacking power. This could be the most tactical semi-final in recent memory.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the World Cup semi-finals?
A: BBC One and iPlayer will broadcast Argentina vs England on Wednesday 15 July. ITV will show Spain vs France on Tuesday 14 July. Live radio commentary is available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.
Q: When is the World Cup 2026 final?
A: The final will be played on Sunday, 19 July 2026 at 20:00 BST at the New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
Q: Has England ever beaten Argentina in a World Cup knockout match?
A: Their most famous encounter was the 1998 World Cup Round of 16, where Argentina won on penalties after a 2-2 draw, famously involving David Beckhams red card. In the 2002 group stage, England won 1-0 through a Beckham penalty. The 2026 semi-final will be their first meeting in a World Cup final four.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup 2026 coverage, analysis, and updates as the tournament reaches its thrilling conclusion.