World Cup 2026 Delivers Drama: Mbappé Fires France into Semi-Finals, England Face Haaland’s Norway in Miami
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its business end, and the quarter-finals are serving up a feast of football action across the United States. From Kylian Mbappé’s brilliance in Atlanta to the heavyweight clash between Harry Kane and Erling Haaland in the sweltering Miami heat, here’s everything you need to know.
🇫🇷 France Edge Past Morocco — Mbappé Magic Decides It
Kylian Mbappé produced another moment of pure genius to break Moroccan resistance and send France into the semi-finals. The French superstar scored a stunning goal — widely described as a “rocket” — to seal a 1-0 victory over a stubborn Morocco side that had already knocked out Portugal in the previous round.
France now await the winner of Spain vs Belgium, with Didier Deschamps’ men looking increasingly dangerous as they chase a second consecutive World Cup title (they won in 2022).
🏴 England vs Norway — Kane vs Haaland, Everything on the Line
All eyes are on the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where England face Norway in what could be the match of the tournament. The temperature is forecast to hit 33°C (91°F), adding an extra layer of physical challenge to an already mammoth encounter.
At the heart of the narrative is the individual duel between two of the world’s deadliest strikers:
- Harry Kane (England) — 6 goals at this World Cup, 85 for his country, and now the second-most capped English player of all time (120 appearances, behind only Peter Shilton).
- Erling Haaland (Norway) — 7 goals in the tournament, has scored in 14 consecutive international matches, with 62 goals in 51 Norway appearances at a staggering rate of one every 71 minutes.
England manager Thomas Tuchel will look to Kane and Jude Bellingham (4 goals in the tournament) to unlock a Norwegian side that has relied heavily on Haaland — Norway’s win rate drops below 30% when the Manchester City star doesn’t find the net.
The winner will face Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals on Wednesday, July 15.
🇦🇷 Argentina vs Switzerland — Messi Hunting Golden Boot
Later today, Lionel Messi leads Argentina against Switzerland with the semi-finals in sight. Messi is joint top of the Golden Boot race alongside Mbappé with 8 goals, and the defending champions are firm favorites. However, Switzerland proved their mettle by knocking out Colombia on penalties in the Round of 16.
🇪🇸 Spain’s Late Heroics & More Drama
Mikel Merino once again showcased his knack for scoring crucial late goals, nodding home a winner to break Belgian hearts and send Spain into the semi-finals. The Spanish side has grown into the tournament and will be a dangerous opponent for whoever emerges from the France-Morocco tie.
What’s Next? Key Upcoming Fixtures
| Date | Match | Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Sat, July 11 | England vs Norway | Quarter-Final |
| Sat, July 11 | Argentina vs Switzerland | Quarter-Final |
| Tue, July 14 | Semi-Final 1 (France/Spain vs TBD) | Semi-Final |
| Wed, July 15 | Semi-Final 2 (England/Norway vs Argentina/Switzerland) | Semi-Final |
| Sun, July 19 | World Cup 2026 Final | Final |
In Other News: Klopp to Germany, Pulisic Injury
Jurgen Klopp has reportedly reached an agreement to become the next head coach of the German national team, in one of the biggest coaching moves of the year. The former Liverpool boss will take charge of Die Mannschaft as they begin their post-tournament rebuild.
In unfortunate news for USMNT fans, Christian Pulisic suffered a leg fracture during the USA’s loss to Belgium and will be sidelined for several weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current top scorer at World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Kylian Mbappé (France) are tied at the top of the Golden Boot race with 8 goals each. Erling Haaland has 7 goals, Harry Kane has 6.
When and where is the World Cup 2026 Final?
The final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 matches?
In the US, matches are broadcast on FOX and streamed on Fubo. In the UK, BBC and ITV share coverage. In Canada, it’s on TSN and RDS.
Has a European team won the World Cup on American soil before?
No European team has won a World Cup held in the Americas since Spain won in South Africa 2010. France and England are both looking to break that drought.