The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered a night of pure drama on Sunday as both England and Argentina booked their spots in the semi-finals after gruelling extra-time battles. Now, a blockbuster clash between the Three Lions and La Albiceleste awaits on Wednesday, 15 July — a rematch 40 years in the making.
Bellingham the Hero as England Edge Past Norway
England survived a stern test against Norway, winning 2-1 after extra time in sweltering Miami conditions. Erling Haaland and co. pushed Thomas Tuchel’s side to the limit — Norway even took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup’s wicked cross-cum-shot in the first half. But Jude Bellingham responded with a stunning solo equaliser before the break, and then bagged the winner early in extra time after Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Håskjold Nyland spilled a Morgan Rogers shot.
Bellingham now has six goals in the tournament and is firmly in the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament conversations. England’s performance was far from polished — Tuchel himself called the team “lucky” — but captain Harry Kane backed the German coach’s methods, saying: “He just wants to see the best version of us.”
Álvarez Thunderbolt Sinks Switzerland
Argentina’s path was equally treacherous. The defending champions needed a moment of pure magic from Julián Álvarez to break Swiss hearts. With the game locked at 1-1 and penalties looming in extra time, Álvarez unleashed a vicious, swerving 22-yard strike into the top corner — surely one of the goals of the tournament. Lautaro Martínez added a late second to seal a 3-1 victory.
The match was not without controversy. Switzerland’s Breel Embolo was shown a yellow card for simulation after a VAR review overturned an initial red under the new “mistaken identity” rule — reducing the Swiss attacker to tears as his side’s dream faded. Lionel Messi, largely peripheral by his standards, was denied repeatedly by Swiss keeper Gregor Kobel but now turns his attention to a mouthwatering semi-final.
England vs Argentina: The Semi-Final We’ve Been Waiting For
Wednesday’s semi-final will be only the third competitive meeting between England and Argentina since the 1998 World Cup and the first since 2005. It also marks 40 years since the iconic “Hand of God” match at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, where Diego Maradona inspired Argentina to victory. For Lionel Messi, 39, this represents his first-ever competitive clash against England — an astonishing stat for a player of his calibre.
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni downplayed the historical narrative: “It’s a football game and that is all.” But with England’s Bellingham in blistering form and Argentina’s knack for dramatic comebacks, this has all the ingredients of a classic.
France Face Spain in the Other Semi-Final
Before the England-Argentina showdown, France take on Spain on Tuesday, 14 July. Kylian Mbappé produced another stunning strike to eliminate Morocco 2-0 in the quarter-finals, while Spain edged past Belgium 2-1. Both sides look formidable.
Infantino Hints at 64-Team World Cup
In a separate development, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hinted at expanding the World Cup further — to a staggering 64 teams — before the 2030 edition. Speaking in an interview, Infantino confirmed FIFA officials will explore the feasibility of another 16-team expansion. The current 48-team format debuted at this very tournament.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
| Match | Date | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|
| France vs Spain (Semi-Final) | Tue 14 July | 20:00 |
| England vs Argentina (Semi-Final) | Wed 15 July | 20:00 |
| 3rd/4th Place Play-Off | Sat 18 July | 22:00 |
| World Cup 2026 Final | Sun 19 July | 20:00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the England vs Argentina World Cup semi-final?
The match takes place on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 at 20:00 BST.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 semi-finals?
BBC and ITV are broadcasting all matches in the UK. In the US, Fox Sports and Telemundo have the rights. Check local listings for other regions.
Who is the top scorer at World Cup 2026 so far?
Jude Bellingham has six goals and is among the leaders for the Golden Boot, alongside Kylian Mbappé and Lautaro Martínez.
Will the World Cup really expand to 64 teams?
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed the possibility is being explored for the 2030 edition, but no official decision has been made.