The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its business end with four teams remaining, and the semi-final lineup promises blockbuster encounters. After a weekend of dramatic quarter-final action, Argentina, England, France, and Spain have booked their tickets to the final four in what has already been a tournament full of twists, controversy, and moments of individual brilliance.
Argentina Edge Past Switzerland in Controversial Affair
Reigning champions Argentina survived a huge scare against a spirited Switzerland side in Kansas City, eventually winning 2-1 after extra time. The match was marred by controversy when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation after a VAR review under the “mistaken identity” rule — the referee initially booked Leandro Paredes for a foul on Embolo, but replays showed the Swiss forward had clearly dived.
Alexis Mac Allister had put Argentina ahead early with a flicked header from a Lionel Messi corner. But Switzerland grew into the game and equalized through Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye, who slotted through Emiliano Martinez’s legs. With the score level and Switzerland down to 10 men, Julian Alvarez produced a moment of magic — curling an unstoppable 25-yard effort past Gregor Kobel in extra time to send Argentina through. Lautaro Martinez added a late third on the counter-attack to seal it.
The win also saw Lionel Messi become the first man in World Cup history to register 10 assists across all tournaments, adding yet another record to his legendary career.
Bellingham the Hero as England Beat Norway
In Miami, Jude Bellingham delivered another masterclass, scoring twice as England came from behind to beat Norway 2-1 in extra time. The Real Madrid superstar — who became the first player to score in consecutive World Cup knockout matches since Diego Maradona in 1986 — dragged Thomas Tuchel’s side through a grueling encounter played in fierce heat and humidity.
Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup’s dipping effort that deceived Jordan Pickford, but Bellingham equalized in first-half stoppage time with a clinical finish. After a tight second half where Norway hit the bar and had a goal ruled out for a Erling Haaland shove, Bellingham struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing on a rebound after Morgan Rogers’ shot was parried by Orjan Nyland.
England now head into their third World Cup semi-final since their 1966 triumph, hoping to finally break the curse after losses to West Germany in 1990 and Croatia in 2018.
Mbappé Fires France Past Morocco
Kylian Mbappé produced another stunning moment to end Morocco’s resistance and send France into the semi-finals. The French superstar scored a sensational goal to break Moroccan hearts, keeping Les Bleus on track for back-to-back World Cup titles after their 2022 final loss to Argentina. France will now face European champions Spain in Dallas.
World Cup 2026 — Semi-Final Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| France vs Spain | Tuesday, 14 July | Dallas | 20:00 |
| Argentina vs England | Wednesday, 15 July | Atlanta | 20:00 |
| Final | Sunday, 19 July | New York/New Jersey | 20:00 |
| 3rd Place Play-off | Saturday, 18 July | TBD | TBD |
Infantino Hints at 64-Team World Cup Expansion
FIFA President Gianni Infantino caused a stir during the knockout rounds by hinting at a further expansion of the World Cup to 64 teams before the 2030 tournament. The 2026 edition already expanded to 48 teams across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The suggestion has divided opinion, with critics arguing it would dilute quality while proponents point to growing global interest in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the World Cup 2026 final?
The World Cup 2026 final will be played on Sunday, 19 July at the New York New Jersey Stadium, kick-off at 20:00 BST (15:00 ET).
Where can I watch the semi-finals?
In the UK, the Argentina vs England semi-final will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, while France vs Spain will be shown on ITV. Both matches kick off at 20:00 BST. In the US, matches are available on Fox Sports.
Who is the top scorer of the tournament so far?
Jude Bellingham has emerged as one of the standout performers with crucial goals in every knockout round. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé also remain in contention for the Golden Boot heading into the semi-finals.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup 2026 coverage, analysis, and updates as the tournament reaches its thrilling conclusion!