July 11 proved to be one of the most emotional days of the 2026 World Cup. It was on this day that the final semi-finalists were determined. England and Argentina both overcame grueling challenges, winning their quarter-final matches only after extra time. Now, the battle for the planet's ultimate prize continues with four footballing giants: France, Spain, England, and Argentina.
England 2-1 Norway (AET)
Bellingham rescues England once again
At Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, England faced off against a surprise Norway side that had previously eliminated Brazil. While Thomas Tuchel’s squad entered as favorites, it was the Norwegians who first ignited the crowd as Andreas Schjelderup opened the scoring with a magnificent strike.
The English responded before the half-time whistle. Team leader Jude Bellingham once again proved he is one of the standout figures of this tournament by leveling the score. Both teams had chances to snatch a winner in the second half, but exceptional goalkeeping and a hard-fought battle forced the match into extra time.
Just as it seemed a penalty shootout would decide the semi-final spot, Bellingham completed his brace. His winning goal sent England to the semi-finals for the first time since the 2018 World Cup. Even after the final whistle, England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted the performance was far from perfect, but praised the team for showing genuine character.
Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (AET)
Argentina withstands Swiss resistance
In the second quarter-final, defending world champions Argentina faced Switzerland. The South Americans took an early lead from a set-piece, but the disciplined Swiss managed to equalize and pushed the favorites to their limit.
Regulation time ended without a winner. The Argentines' superior quality eventually told during the extra thirty minutes. First, Julián Álvarez put his side ahead with a beautiful finish, and in stoppage time, Lautaro Martínez sealed the 3-1 victory.
Lionel Messi was once again the focal point of the Argentine attack as his team continued their title defense, remaining on course to potentially become back-to-back world champions.
2026 World Cup Semi-Final Matchups
Semi-finals set to be the tournament's centerpiece
With the quarter-finals over, the world's final four teams have been confirmed:
- July 14: France vs. Spain;
- July 15: England vs. Argentina.
Each of these teams has already overcome significant challenges on their journey to the semi-finals. France and Spain have displayed a mature brand of football, England has once again shown incredible resolve, and Argentina continues its title defense led by Lionel Messi.
Only two steps remain until the final. Ahead lies a clash between rising stars and veteran leaders, a battle of European heavyweights, and a new chapter in the storied rivalry between England and Argentina.
The ultimate question now is who will reach the final to compete for football's greatest prize. With only three matches left in the World Cup, the hunt for the title has entered its final, decisive stage.
These four national teams will continue the fight, and fans can look forward to what may be the most spectacular matches of the entire tournament.
