The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its semifinal stage, featuring the four highest-ranked teams in the world: France, Argentina, Spain, and England. These nations have all previously won a World Cup title and remain undefeated in the current tournament. The semifinals are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the winners advancing to Sunday’s final in New York.
Argentina is aiming to secure back-to-back titles, a feat not achieved since Brazil in 1958 and 1962. France, a finalist four years ago and winner in 2018, seeks another championship. Spain is looking for its second title since 2010, while England hopes to end a long wait, having last won in 1966.
France vs. Spain in Dallas
The first semifinal match will see France take on Spain on Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET in Dallas. This European clash pits France‘s potent attack against Spain‘s strong defence. France has scored 16 goals in seven matches, with Kylian Mbappé leading the tournament with eight goals, tied with Lionel Messi.
Spain‘s defence, featuring veteran Aymeric Laporte and teenager Pau Cubarsi, has been formidable, recording five clean sheets before conceding its first goal in a 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Belgium. France‘s attack, however, has not been shut out in six games.
For France, midfielder Michael Olise has been a key creative force, providing five assists, which is the highest in the tournament. His ability to deliver precise passes has been crucial in unlocking opposing defences. Spain‘s Mikel Merino has proven to be an impactful substitute, scoring decisive goals in both the round of 16 against Portugal and the quarterfinals against Belgium shortly after entering the game.
A critical midfield battle is expected between France‘s Désiré Doué and Spain‘s defensive midfielder Rodri. Doué has been influential for France‘s counterattacks, making quick transitions from defence to attack. Given Spain‘s tendency to dominate possession, Rodri‘s role in disrupting Doué‘s runs and passes will be vital.
England vs. Argentina in Atlanta
The second semifinal, scheduled for Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET in Atlanta, renews a long-standing rivalry between England and Argentina. This marks their sixth encounter at the World Cup and their first-ever semifinal meeting. Both teams have navigated challenging knockout matches to reach this stage.
Argentina boasts the tournament’s best attack with 17 goals, while England is close behind with 13. This suggests a potentially high-scoring match with numerous opportunities. Argentina has often relied on moments of individual brilliance to advance through the knockout rounds.
Lionel Messi, at age 39, has been a standout player for Argentina, with eight goals and two assists. He has scored in all but one of Argentina‘s six matches. Despite his significant impact, Messi‘s efficiency is notable, with FIFA tracking data indicating a large portion of his movement is at a walking pace.
For England, Jude Bellingham has been a highly influential player, scoring six goals. He is the first player in World Cup history to score a brace in consecutive knockout matches since Diego Maradona in 1986. Harry Kane also has six goals for England, with both players being crucial to their team’s progress. England‘s central midfield, led by Declan Rice, will face a challenge from Argentina‘s quick press and transition play, particularly from players like Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández. The ability of Rice to maintain possession and slow down Argentina‘s rhythm will be key to England‘s defence.
The winners of these two matches will compete in the final on July 19.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
