2026 World Cup: Spain, England, and Argentina Advanced to the Semifinals After France
The quarter-final stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has concluded, officially determining the four teams that will compete in the semi-finals. France, Spain, England, and defending champions Argentina all secured their places after dramatic knockout victories.
The tournament has delivered unforgettable moments, extra-time thrillers, controversial VAR decisions, and standout performances from some of football's biggest stars. The semi-final matchups are now set: France vs Spain and Argentina vs England.
Spain Defeat Belgium to Reach the Final Four
Spain booked their semi-final place after defeating Belgium 2-1 at Los Angeles Stadium.
Once again, Mikel Merino proved to be Spain's game-changing substitute. Coming off the bench for the second consecutive knockout match, he scored the decisive goal and reinforced his reputation as one of the tournament's most effective impact players.
Spain, who lifted the World Cup trophy in 2010, remain firmly in contention for another global title and will now face France in the semi-finals.
England Edge Norway After Extra Time
England survived a difficult test against Norway, claiming a dramatic 2-1 victory after extra time.
Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup, but Jude Bellingham equalized before halftime. The Real Madrid midfielder then completed his outstanding performance by scoring the winning goal during extra time.
One of the game's biggest talking points came when VAR ruled out Torbjørn Heggem's goal after determining Erling Haaland had pushed Elliot Anderson during the build-up.
Following the match, England manager Thomas Tuchel criticized his team's display, describing the victory as "fortunate." Bellingham later responded by joking that perhaps Tuchel "doesn't know what it's like to play under these conditions."
Argentina Overcome Switzerland in Extra Time
Defending champions Argentina also needed extra time to secure their place in the semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1.
Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring with a header in the 10th minute before Dan Ndoye equalized for Switzerland during the second half.
The turning point came in the 72nd minute when Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review.
With the score tied after 90 minutes, Argentina found another gear. Julian Alvarez restored the lead in the 112th minute before Lautaro Martinez sealed victory deep into stoppage time.
Lionel Scaloni's side will now meet England in one of the tournament's most anticipated semi-final clashes.
2026 FIFA World Cup Semi-Final Fixtures
- France vs Spain
- Argentina vs England
With four football powerhouses remaining, the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title is entering its most exciting stage.