This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.
World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals Set: France vs Spain & England vs Argentina After Dramatic Quarter-Finals
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final four after a breathtaking round of quarter-final action across the United States. France, Spain, England, and Argentina will battle for a place in the July 19 final at New York New Jersey Stadium after all four ties delivered drama, controversy, and world-class moments.
Quarter-Final Results at a Glance
| Match | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina vs Switzerland | 3-1 (AET) | Kansas City |
| England vs Norway | 2-1 (AET) | Miami |
| France vs Morocco | 2-0 | — |
| Spain vs Belgium | 2-1 | Los Angeles |
Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (AET) — Embolo Red Card Drama
The reigning champions survived a major scare in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister headed Argentina ahead early from a Lionel Messi corner, but Switzerland fought back through Nottingham Forest’s Dan Ndoye to level after 67 minutes. The match turned when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation following a VAR review for mistaken identity — earning a second yellow card for diving. Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance in extra time, curling a 25-yard unstoppable effort past Gregor Kobel, before Lautaro Martinez sealed it on the counter. Messi set a new World Cup record with his 10th career assist.
England 2-1 Norway (AET) — Bellingham the Hero Again
Jude Bellingham delivered another masterclass in Miami’s sweltering heat and humidity. Norway struck first through Andreas Schjelderup’s dipping long-range effort that deceived Jordan Pickford. But Bellingham equalized in first-half stoppage time, taking Anthony Gordon’s pass in stride to beat Orjan Nyland. With the score locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Bellingham struck again three minutes into extra time, pouncing on a rebound after Nyland pushed out Morgan Rogers’ shot. Erling Haaland was largely subdued and substituted at half-time of extra time. England now faces Argentina in their third World Cup semi-final since 1966.
Bellingham became the first player to score 2+ goals in consecutive World Cup knockout games since Diego Maradona in 1986. He also joined an elite list alongside Pele — the second youngest to achieve the feat.
France 2-0 Morocco — Mbappe & Dembele Lead the Way
France continued their dominant campaign with a comfortable win over Morocco, setting up a semi-final clash with Spain. Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele were the architects, though Mbappe did miss a penalty. Morocco managed just one shot on target — in the 83rd minute when already 2-0 down. France, winners in 1998 and 2018, enter as heavy favorites having impressed throughout the tournament.
Spain 2-1 Belgium — Merino Strikes Late Again
Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s super-substitute for the second consecutive knockout game. With the score tied at 1-1 after Fabian Ruiz’s opener and Charles De Ketelaere’s equalizer, and with 88 minutes on the clock, Belgium’s replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens (on for the injured Thibaut Courtois) spilled a long-range effort from Pau Cubarsi, and Merino — on the pitch for just 117 seconds — planted the rebound into the roof of the net. The win ended Belgium’s hopes for their “golden generation” with Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Courtois likely playing their last World Cup.
Golden Boot Race Heats Up
| Player | Goals | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Kylian Mbappé | 6 | France |
| Lionel Messi | 6 | Argentina |
| Jude Bellingham | 6 | England |
| Harry Kane | 6 | England |
| Erling Haaland | 5 | Norway (eliminated) |
| Ousmane Dembélé | 5 | France |
Upcoming Semi-Final Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, July 14 | France vs Spain | Dallas Stadium | 3:00 PM ET |
| Wed, July 15 | England vs Argentina | Atlanta Stadium | 3:00 PM ET |
The final will be played on Sunday, July 19 at 3:00 PM ET at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Looking Ahead
Can England finally end 60 years of hurt? Thomas Tuchel’s side has shown incredible resilience, coming from behind in crunch games. Bellingham is in the form of his life, but the Argentina defense presents a very different challenge — especially with Messi pulling the strings.
Is France the team to beat? With Mbappe, Dembele, and an extraordinary squad depth, Les Bleus are the clear favorites. But Spain’s defensive record (only 1 goal conceded in 6 games) and their knack for late drama make them dangerous underdogs.
Will Messi crown his legacy with back-to-back titles? Argentina haven’t been at their best this tournament, but they’ve found ways to win. With Messi’s assist record and the firepower of Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, they can never be counted out.
One thing is certain: World Cup 2026 has delivered unforgettable drama, and the best is yet to come.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for the latest World Cup 2026 coverage, match analysis, and updates.