As the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its decisive phase, the semifinals are now confirmed following a series of intense quarterfinal matches.

The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has delivered high drama, and the remaining four teams will battle for a place in the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

The first semifinal pits two European powerhouses against each other as France play Spain. This highly anticipated clash is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with kickoff at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.

France advanced to the last four with a commanding 2-0 quarterfinal victory over Morocco, where Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé found the net. Spain, meanwhile, secured their place with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Belgium, thanks to a late goal from Mikel Merino. The matchup features two of the world’s top-ranked teams and promises a contest rich in technical quality, tactical discipline, and attacking flair. France’s clinical finishing and Spain’s possession-based style have defined their campaigns so far, setting the stage for what could be one of the tournament’s standout encounters.

The second semifinal will be contested on Wednesday, July 15, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, also kicking off at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.

It will take place between England and Argentina, which will be the first meeting for these two countries in a long time. England beat Norway 2-1 to progress while Argentina saw off Switzerland 3-1 to secure their place in the semifinals. And as Lionel Messi’s team continue to overcome challenges in the Extra Time, they will now face the first team within top 10 in FIFA rankings in this World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Semifinals Schedule

France vs Spain, Tuesday (July 14)

England vs Argentina, Wednesday (July 15)

What It Means

The semifinals lineup gives us a mouthwatering final lap of this World Cup. It can be an all European final, while it can also be a repeat of the FIFA WC 2022 final between Argentina and France.

The Golden Boot race is also heating up as Kylian Mbappe (7), Lionel Messi (7), Harry Kane (6), Jude Bellingham (6) are all in the semifinals of the World Cup.