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The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals delivered drama, late heroics, and a heavyweight semi-final lineup as Spain edged Belgium and France cruised past Morocco on Friday, July 10. The stage is now set for a European titan clash in Dallas while England and Norway prepare to write their own chapter in Miami.
Spain 2-1 Belgium — Merino Strikes Again
Mikel Merino is quickly becoming Spain’s super-sub. The Arsenal midfielder scored his second stoppage-time winner of the tournament — this time in the 88th minute — to snatch a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles and send La Roja into the semi-finals.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute after some slick build-up play involving Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro. But Belgium hit back just before half-time when Charles de Ketelaere powered home a header to end Spain’s remarkable 649-minute run without conceding at this World Cup.
The turning point came in the 71st minute when Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off with an apparent muscle injury, replaced by Senne Lammens. With the score tied 1-1 and extra time looming, Pau Cubarsi unleashed a 25-yard drive that Lammens spilled, and Merino — on the pitch for just 117 seconds — pounced to plant the rebound into the roof of the net.
It was a heartbreaking exit for Belgium’s golden generation, with Kevin de Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Courtois likely playing their final World Cup matches.
France 2-0 Morocco — Mbappe and Dembele Deliver
France made light work of Morocco in their quarter-final, winning 2-0 in a rematch of the 2022 semi-final. Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele were on the scoresheet as Didier Deschamps’ side booked their place in the last four without ever needing to hit top gear.
Morocco barely troubled the French defense, registering only one shot on target in the 83rd minute when already 2-0 down. France’s intent was clear from the opening minutes as Mbappe tested Yassine Bounou early on, and the pressure never let up. Former England striker Ian Wright described France as one of the most clear favourites for a World Cup he has ever seen.
Confirmed Semi-Final: France vs Spain
The first semi-final is set: France vs Spain at AT&T Stadium in Dallas on Tuesday, July 14 (20:00 BST / 3:00 PM ET). It’s a rematch of the 2024 Euro semi-final, which Spain won on their way to lifting the trophy. Luis de la Fuente’s side are bidding to hold both the World Cup and European Championship crowns simultaneously.
Upcoming Quarter-Finals
Match | Date | Venue | Time (ET)
England vs Norway | Sat, Jul 11 | Miami Stadium | 5:00 PM
Argentina vs Switzerland | Sun, Jul 12 | Atlanta Stadium | TBD
Golden Boot Race Heating Up
The race for the Golden Boot is one of the closest in World Cup history. Lionel Messi leads with 8 goals, followed by Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland on 7 apiece, with England captain Harry Kane close behind on 6.
Looking Ahead
England meet Norway in Saturday’s quarter-final — a clash between Harry Kane and Erling Haaland that has captured global attention. Norway boss Stale Solbakken admits England are favorites, but with Haaland scoring 7 goals already and Norway fresh off their stunning win over Brazil, anything is possible.
Argentina face Switzerland on Sunday after their incredible comeback win over Egypt (3-2) where Messi missed a penalty before scoring and setting up the winner. The defending champions are showing remarkable resilience under Lionel Scaloni.
The World Cup final takes place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show will feature Madonna, Shakira, and BTS.
FAQ
When is the France vs Spain semi-final?
Tuesday, July 14 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, kickoff at 3:00 PM ET.
Who are the top scorers at World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi (8 goals), Kylian Mbappe (7), Erling Haaland (7), and Harry Kane (6).
When is the World Cup final?
Sunday, July 19 at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ.