World Cup 2026 Semifinals Are Set: France vs Spain, England vs Argentina — Complete Schedule & Preview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America has reached its final four. After 80 matches, 44 nations eliminated, and weeks of unforgettable drama, only France, Spain, England, and defending champions Argentina remain. The semifinals kick off this Tuesday and Wednesday at iconic NFL stadiums across the United States.
Road to the Semifinals
The quarterfinal round delivered everything fans could ask for — dominant displays, tight battles, and a penalty shootout that sent a European giant packing.
- France 2-0 Morocco (Boston, July 9) — Kylian Mbappé inspired Les Bleus past a stubborn Moroccan side in a rematch of the 2022 semifinal. Despite Morocco’s resilience, France’s quality shone through with two second-half goals.
- Spain 2-1 Belgium (Los Angeles, July 10) — A cracking contest at SoFi Stadium. Mikel Merino was the hero again for Spain, netting the winner in a tightly contested affair that saw both teams trade blows.
- England 2-1 Norway (AET) (Miami, July 11) — Norway pushed England to extra time in a gripping quarterfinal, but the Three Lions found a way through. England’s depth proved decisive as they booked their first World Cup semifinal since 2018.
- Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (Kansas City, July 11) — The defending champions showed their class. Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a vintage performance, setting up two goals and scoring one himself as La Albiceleste overcame a spirited Swiss side.
Semifinal Schedule (Eastern Time)
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, July 14 | France vs Spain | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX | 3:00 PM |
| Wed, July 15 | England vs Argentina | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA | 3:00 PM |
Semifinal 1: France vs Spain — A Clash of European Titans
The first semifinal pits two of Europe’s most decorated national teams against each other in Dallas. France, the 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up, are seeking their third final in four tournaments. Spain, winners in 2010, have rebuilt impressively under their current setup and boast a midfield that can dominate any opponent.
Key battle: France’s athleticism up front vs Spain’s possession control. If France can absorb pressure and hit on the counter, they have the firepower to decide the game. But Spain’s methodical build-up and defensive organization make them the toughest puzzle in world football right now.
Semifinal 2: England vs Argentina — A Rivalry Renewed
In Atlanta, a classic World Cup rivalry gets a new chapter. England and Argentina have met in some of football’s most iconic moments — Maradona’s “Hand of God” (1986), Beckham’s red card (1998), and the 2002 group stage. Now, they face off with a place in the Final on the line.
Argentina enter as defending champions with the tournament’s most in-form player in Lionel Messi, who has 5 goals and 4 assists so far. England counter with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane — a partnership that has carried them through tough knockout matches.
Key battle: Argentina’s compact defensive shape vs England’s versatility. The Three Lions can play direct or patient, and their extra-time experience against Norway may give them a psychological edge.
What’s Next
- Third-Place Match: Saturday, July 18 — Hard Rock Stadium, Miami (5:00 PM ET)
- Final: Sunday, July 19 — MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ (3:00 PM ET)
FAQ
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 semifinals in the US?
All matches are broadcast live on FOX (English) and Telemundo (Spanish). Streaming options include Fubo, Peacock, and Fox Sports app.
What happens if a semifinal match is tied after 90 minutes?
The match goes to extra time (two 15-minute periods). If still tied, it proceeds to a penalty shootout. There are no replays.
Which stadiums are hosting the semifinals?
AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (home of the Dallas Cowboys) hosts France vs Spain on July 14. Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia hosts England vs Argentina on July 15. Both are state-of-the-art venues with retractable roofs.
Who is the favorite to win the World Cup?
As of July 12, Argentina leads most betting markets as slight favorites thanks to their defending champion pedigree and Messi’s form. France is close behind, followed by England and Spain — but at this stage, any of the four could lift the trophy.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for the latest World Cup 2026 updates, match analysis, and more. Which team are you backing? Let us know in the comments!