The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final four. After a thrilling round of quarter-finals packed with drama, controversy, and moments of brilliance, the semi-final lineup is confirmed: Argentina face England in a blockbuster showdown, while Spain take on France in a clash of European champions.
Quarter-Final Recap: Drama in Every Tie
🇦🇷 Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (AET)
The defending champions needed extra time to overcome a gutsy Switzerland side in Kansas City. The match turned in the 72nd minute when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation after a VAR review — the first red card issued under FIFA’s new mistaken-identity law at this tournament. With Switzerland down to ten men, Julian Alvarez fired home a stunning 25-yard curler in extra time, and Lautaro Martinez added a third on the counter. Alexis Mac Allister had opened the scoring early, while Dan Ndoye equalized for Switzerland. Lionel Messi made history yet again, becoming the first player ever to register 10 World Cup assists.
🏴 England 2-1 Norway (AET)
Jude Bellingham delivered yet another iconic performance, scoring twice to drag England past a dangerous Norway side in the Miami heat. Andreas Schjelderup had given Norway a first-half lead, but Bellingham equalized in stoppage time. He struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing on a loose ball to send Thomas Tuchel’s side into the semi-finals. Erling Haaland was kept quiet and substituted during extra time as England march on.
🇪🇸 Spain 2-1 Belgium
Mikel Merino is becoming Spain’s super-sub. For the second consecutive knockout match, the Arsenal midfielder scored a late winner — this time in the 88th minute after Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsi’s shot. Fabian Ruiz had given Spain the lead, but Charles de Ketelaere equalized before halftime. Belgium’s Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured, proving pivotal. Spain face France in only their second World Cup semi-final since winning the title in 2010.
🇫🇷 France 2-0 Morocco
France delivered a commanding performance against Morocco, despite Kylian Mbappe missing a first-half penalty. Les Bleus controlled the match from start to finish, with goals from Ousmane Dembele and Adrien Rabiot sealing the win. Morocco managed just one shot on target all night as France’s depth proved too much. Ian Wright described Deschamps’ side as “one of the most clear favourites for a World Cup tournament I have ever seen.”
Semi-Final Schedule & Preview
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 14 July | 🇪🇸 Spain vs France 🇫🇷 | AT&T Stadium, Dallas | 20:00 |
| Wed 15 July | 🇦🇷 Argentina vs England 🏴 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | 20:00 |
Key Storylines to Watch
- Argentina vs England — A heavyweight clash between the defending champions and a hungry England side. Can Messi’s Argentina reach back-to-back finals? Or will Bellingham lead England to their first men’s final since 1966?
- Spain vs France — Euro 2024 champions Spain face two-time World Cup winners France. Both teams are loaded with talent — Yamal, Olmo, Rodri vs Mbappe, Dembele, Tchouameni. Tactical chess match expected.
Upcoming Schedule
- 3rd Place Playoff: Saturday 18 July — Los Angeles
- Final: Sunday 19 July — MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
FAQ
Where is the 2026 World Cup Final being played?
The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday, 19 July 2026.
Who are the favorites to win the World Cup?
France entered the tournament as favorites and have looked dominant. However, Argentina are the defending champions, while England’s Bellingham-inspired run and Spain’s tactical brilliance make this one of the most open semi-final lineups in recent memory.
How can I watch the semi-finals?
In the UK, both semi-finals will be broadcast live on the BBC. Check your local listings for international broadcasters.