The 2026 FIFA World Cup is reaching boiling point as the quarter-finals deliver drama, heartbreak, and historic individual performances. With France already through to the semi-finals and Spain facing Belgium today, here’s everything you need to know.
France 2-0 Morocco: Les Bleus March On
Didier Deschamps’ France became the first team to book their semi-final spot with a commanding 2-0 victory over Morocco. Despite Kylian Mbappe missing a first-half penalty — a rare sight from the tournament’s joint-top scorer — France controlled the game from start to finish. Ousmane Dembele opened the scoring and the French defense completely neutralized Morocco’s attack, limiting them to just one shot on target all match.
Former England striker Ian Wright had described France before the match as “one of the most clear favourites for a World Cup tournament I have ever seen,” and they lived up to that billing. France will face the winner of today’s Spain vs Belgium quarter-final on Tuesday, July 14.
Argentina Complete Stunning Comeback Against Egypt
The reigning world champions delivered a scarcely believable second-half turnaround to break Egyptian hearts 3-2 in the Round of 16. Trailing 2-0 with just 11 minutes remaining, goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernandez (in the 92nd minute) completed a miraculous comeback. The drama was compounded by a controversial non-penalty call for Egypt when Mohamed Salah appeared to be tripped in the box moments before Argentina’s winner. Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
In a bizarre twist, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) reported it may have suffered a cyber attack after emails from its official accounts allegedly criticized refereeing in the match. AFA stated they have “detected anomalous activity” and launched an investigation.
Golden Boot Race: A Battle for the Ages
The 2026 World Cup is witnessing arguably the greatest Golden Boot race in tournament history. Four forwards are pushing towards double figures:
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) — 8 goals (1 assist)
- Kylian Mbappe (France) — 7 goals (2 assists)
- Erling Haaland (Norway) — 7 goals
- Harry Kane (England) — 6 goals (1 assist)
Historically, only eight players had ever scored 8+ goals at a single World Cup. Messi has now joined that elite list including Just Fontaine, Gerd Muller, and Ronaldo — with three other superstars on pace to do the same.
Other Key Stories
- Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to reach the quarter-finals
- Belgium eliminated the United States to set up today’s clash with Spain
- Jorge Jesus was named Portugal’s new head coach on a four-year contract through 2030, replacing Roberto Martinez
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
- July 10 — Spain vs Belgium (Quarter-Final)
- July 11 — England vs Norway (Quarter-Final) — Can Tuchel’s side stop Erling Haaland?
- July 14 — Semi-Final 1 (France vs Spain/Belgium winner)
- July 15 — Semi-Final 2
- July 19 — World Cup Final
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the top scorer of World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi currently leads the Golden Boot race with 8 goals, followed by Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland on 7 goals each, and Harry Kane on 6.
When is the World Cup 2026 final?
The World Cup 2026 final will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup 2026 coverage, match analysis, and sporting news.