The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final four with mouth-watering clashes lined up after a weekend of extraordinary drama in the quarter-finals.
Argentina survived a scare against 10-man Switzerland, England came from behind to beat Norway in extra time, while Spain and France also booked their spots in the semi-finals of football’s greatest tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina’s Grit and Genius Prevail
The reigning world champions advanced with a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in sweltering Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for Argentina in the 10th minute, flicking home Lionel Messi’s corner kick at the near post.
However, Switzerland grew into the game and deservedly equalized through Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye, who cut in from the left and tucked a finish through Emiliano Martinez’s legs in the 67th minute.
The match turned dramatically when Swiss striker Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for diving after a VAR review — a decision that sparked outrage from the Swiss camp. With the numerical advantage, Argentina pushed forward relentlessly until Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance, curling an unstoppable 25-yard effort past Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel in extra time.
Lautaro Martinez added a third on the counter-attack to seal the win. Lionel Messi also added yet another record to his collection, becoming the first man to register 10 assists in World Cup matches.
Bellingham Inspires England Past Norway
In Miami, England needed extra time to overcome a stubborn Norway side. The Three Lions fell behind when Andreas Schjelderup’s dipping effort deceived Jordan Pickford, but Jude Bellingham — England’s talisman — equalized in first-half stoppage time.
Bellingham struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing after Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland could only parry a shot from substitute Morgan Rogers. Erling Haaland was largely subdued and was substituted at the break in extra time, as England held on to reach their third World Cup semi-final since winning the trophy in 1966.
Semi-Final Lineup
Spain vs France — Tuesday, July 14 — Dallas, Texas
European champions Spain face 2022 runners-up France in what promises to be a tactical masterclass. Both sides have shown impressive form throughout the tournament.
Argentina vs England — Wednesday, July 15 — Atlanta, Georgia
A blockbuster clash between the reigning champions and Thomas Tuchel’s England. Argentina enter as favorites but have shown vulnerabilities despite their star-studded lineup. England, unbeaten so far, will look to Bellingham for more magic.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the semi-finals?
A: In the UK, BBC One and iPlayer will broadcast Argentina vs England, while ITV will show Spain vs France. In the US, FOX Sports has exclusive coverage of all matches.
Q: Has Argentina ever beaten England in a World Cup knockout match?
A: Yes — most famously in the 1986 quarter-finals (Maradona’s “Hand of God” match) and the 1998 Round of 16. England won the most recent meeting in the 2002 group stage (1-0).
Upcoming Matches Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spain vs France (SF) | Tue, July 14 | AT&T Stadium, Dallas | 8:00 PM |
| Argentina vs England (SF) | Wed, July 15 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | 8:00 PM |
| Third Place Play-off | Sat, July 18 | TBC | 4:00 PM |
| World Cup Final | Sun, July 19 | MetLife Stadium, NJ | 8:00 PM |