World Cup semifinals feature top-ranked teams
The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are set to feature the top four ranked teams, marking a historic first for the tournament. After 100 matches, four teams remain in contention for the title. The semifinals will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, with the final scheduled for Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
The first semifinal will see France and Spain, the top two teams in the FIFA rankings, face each other on Tuesday. France secured their spot by defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals, with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Spain advanced after a 2-1 victory over Belgium, where Mikel Merino scored the game-winning goal in the 88th minute. This match will be held at Dallas Stadium.
The second semifinal, scheduled for Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium, will pit England against Argentina. England reached this stage by eliminating Erling Haaland’s Norway in extra time, with Jude Bellingham scoring a brace in their 2-1 win. Argentina, the defending champions, became the last team to qualify for the semifinals after defeating Switzerland in extra time, with Julian Alvarez contributing a crucial goal.
Key players to watch in the matchups
Several players are expected to be pivotal in the upcoming semifinal clashes. In the France versus Spain match, Kylian Mbappé is highlighted as a potential decider. His performance against Morocco, where he scored and created space for teammates, showcased his continued impact in the tournament. Spain’s midfielder Rodri, who has been in dominant form, is also considered a key player, having completed more passes and carried the ball further than any other player in the tournament so far. Marc Cucurella will have the primary assignment of marking Mbappé on the left flank.
For the England versus Argentina semifinal, Jude Bellingham is seen as crucial for England. His ability to score critical goals, make lung-busting runs, and maintain defensive intensity in midfield has been vital to England’s campaign. He scored two goals against Norway, continuing a trend of stepping up when his team needs him. Lionel Messi, a contender for the Golden Boot, will be a central figure for Argentina, as they aim to repeat as champions.
The quarterfinals saw several standout performances. Rodri’s display against Belgium, where he was instrumental in Spain’s patient possession play, was noted. Kylian Mbappé’s goal against Morocco, which involved taking on three defenders and creating an opportunity for Dembélé, was also highlighted. Jude Bellingham’s contributions for England, particularly in their match against Norway, were repeatedly praised by observers, with some suggesting England would not be in the semifinals without him. John Stones of England also received recognition for his effort in the Miami heat and humidity, playing the full 90 minutes despite limited prior game time in 2026.
Road to the final
The four remaining teams are considered by many to be the strongest in the tournament, with all four being among the highest-ranked teams in the FIFA rankings. France has advanced to the semifinals for the third consecutive World Cup, while Spain is making its first semifinal appearance since winning the tournament in 2010. England is seeking its first World Cup title since 1966, and Argentina is looking to secure back-to-back championships.
The semifinal matches are scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 15, both at 3 p.m. ET. The winners will then proceed to the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, at 3 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium in New York New Jersey.
The bronze-medal match will take place the day before the final in Miami.
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Source: nytimes.com
