NEW YORK, July 14: The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered its decisive stage, with four former champions—France, Spain, England and Argentina—set to contest two eagerly awaited semi-finals in the United States. The first semi-final will feature France against Spain at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, July 14. The match will kick off at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, corresponding to 12:00 midnight in Pakistan at the start of Wednesday, July 15. The encounter is expected to be a fascinating tactical battle between France’s pace, physical strength and attacking firepower and Spain’s possession-based football, aggressive pressing and technical excellence.

France qualified for the last four by defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarter-finals and are seeking to reach a third successive World Cup final. Kylian Mbappé, one of the tournament’s leading performers, will once again spearhead the French attack alongside a talented group of forwards. Spain booked their semi-final place with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring before Mikel Merino struck the decisive late goal to send the 2010 world champions into the last four.

French coach Didier Deschamps has indicated that his side will attempt to challenge Spain for control of midfield instead of relying only on defensive organisation and counterattacks. Spain, meanwhile, will look towards young attacking star Lamine Yamal and their experienced midfielders to dictate the tempo of the contest. France have an additional incentive to win, as victory would put them in their third consecutive World Cup final. Spain will be encouraged by their recent success against France in the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2024 and the UEFA Nations League, although the French camp believes previous results will have little bearing on the World Cup showdown. The second semi-final will bring together England and defending champions Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 15. It will begin at 3:00 p.m. local time, or 12:00 midnight in Pakistan at the start of Thursday, July 16. England advanced after defeating Norway 2-1 following extra time in the quarter-finals. Jude Bellingham played a decisive role in the victory and will be one of England’s key players alongside captain Harry Kane. England, world champions in 1966, are attempting to reach another final and end their long wait for a second global title.

Argentina secured their place in the semi-finals with a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland. The defending champions will once again rely on the leadership and creativity of Lionel Messi, supported by an experienced squad that has demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament. The England-Argentina fixture carries enormous historical significance. The two countries have produced several unforgettable World Cup encounters, and their latest meeting is expected to attract worldwide attention. England will look to use their energy, physical strength and midfield quality, while Argentina will depend on their composure, experience and ability to perform under pressure. Argentina are seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the men’s World Cup title. England, however, will be determined to overcome the defending champions and secure a place in the final of the expanded 48-team tournament.The winners of the two semi-finals will meet in the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, at New York–New Jersey Stadium. The losing teams will contest the third-place play-off on Saturday, July 18.

With France, Spain, England and Argentina all possessing world-class players and proud football traditions, the semi-final stage promises two memorable contests. Football supporters across the world are now eagerly waiting to discover which two nations will compete for the most prestigious trophy in international football.