Dream Semifinal Field Set for 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America has narrowed its original 48-team field down to a star-studded final four. The semifinal matchups feature four past champions and the top four-ranked teams in the world, setting up a blockbusting conclusion to the tournament.
Semifinal Matchups & Schedule
- France vs. Spain: Tuesday, July 14, at 2:00 PM ET (Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas)
- England vs. Argentina: Wednesday, July 15, at 3:00 PM ET (Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia)
Key Storylines and Star Power
The matchups showcase some of the most compelling individual and national rivalries in modern football:
- The Collision Course: France's Kylian Mbappé, who has scored in every single match of the tournament, faces off against Spain's 19-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal. France reached the semifinals by defeating Morocco 2-0, while Spain overcame Belgium 2-1.
- The Grudge Match: Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi (8 goals in 6 matches), will play England in a highly anticipated clash. Argentina outlasted Switzerland 3-1 in extra time during the quarterfinals, while Jude Bellingham scored twice to fuel England's 2-1 victory over Norway.
According to Opta's supercomputer, France enters the final week as the tournament favorite with a 34.05% chance of lifting the trophy, followed by Spain (23.45%), England, and Argentina. The winners of the two semifinals will advance to the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium (New York New Jersey).