The 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals are officially confirmed after two dramatic quarter-final battles in Kansas City and Miami. Argentina will face England while Spain take on France, setting up a blockbuster final week in the United States.
Argentina 2-1 Switzerland (AET) — Alvarez the Hero
In sweltering Kansas City, reigning champions Argentina booked their semi-final spot with a gritty extra-time victory over Switzerland. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring early, flicking home a Lionel Messi corner after just 10 minutes. But Switzerland grew into the game and deservedly equalized through Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye in the 67th minute.
The game’s turning point came when Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was sent off for diving after a VAR review — receiving a second yellow card for simulation. Despite being a man down, the Swiss held firm until extra time, when Julian Alvarez produced a moment of magic — curling an unstoppable 25-yard strike past Gregor Kobel. Lautaro Martinez sealed it on the counter, keeping Argentina’s dream of back-to-back World Cups alive.
Messi also made history, becoming the first player ever to register 10 assists in World Cup matches.
England 2-1 Norway (AET) — Bellingham’s Brilliance
England came from behind to beat Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami, thanks to a stunning double from Jude Bellingham. Norway struck first through Andreas Schjelderup’s dipping effort that deceived Jordan Pickford. But Bellingham leveled deep into first-half stoppage time, expertly finishing Anthony Gordon’s pass.
Thomas Tuchel made crucial half-time changes, bringing on Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze for the injured Declan Rice and Noni Madueke. Norway pushed hard, hitting the bar through David Moller Wolfe and having a goal ruled out for Erling Haaland’s shove, but Bellingham struck again early in extra time to send England through to their third World Cup semi-final since 1966.
Semi-Final Schedule
- Spain vs France — Tuesday, July 14, 20:00 BST (8:00 PM) — Dallas Stadium (ITV)
- Argentina vs England — Wednesday, July 15, 20:00 BST (8:00 PM) — Atlanta Stadium (BBC One / iPlayer)
The winners will meet in the World Cup Final on Sunday, July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium (20:00 BST).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I watch the semi-finals?
A: England vs Argentina will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Spain vs France will air on ITV. All matches are available via live text updates on BBC Sport.
Q: Has England reached a World Cup final since 1966?
A: No. England’s last World Cup final appearance was in 1966 when they won. They reached the semi-finals in 1990 (lost to West Germany) and 2018 (lost to Croatia).
Q: Can Argentina win back-to-back World Cups?
A: Yes — they won the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The last nation to win consecutive World Cups was Brazil (1958 and 1962).
What’s Next?
With four giants of world football remaining, the 2026 World Cup is building toward an unforgettable climax. Can Messi and Argentina defend their crown? Will England end 60 years of hurt? Or will Spain or France triumph in North America? Stay tuned for all the action.
Images via Getty Images / BBC Sport