Bellingham and Álvarez shine as four giants power into last four after dramatic quarter-final clashes

England, Argentina, France, and Spain have sealed their places in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after navigating intense quarter-final encounters, setting up two heavyweight clashes in the tournament’s decisive week.

The four football powerhouses will now battle for spots in the final as the race for the world’s biggest prize reaches its climax.

England booked a mouth-watering semi-final showdown with defending champions Argentina after overcoming Norway, while Argentina edged Switzerland in extra time to keep their title defence alive.

Jude Bellingham starred for England with a brace against Erling Haaland’s Norway, while Julián Álvarez netted the decisive goal to send Lionel Scaloni’s side through. Lionel Messi has also continued his impressive run, keeping Argentina firmly on course to retain the trophy.

In the other semi-final, France will face Spain after both sides progressed with commanding performances. France, inspired by Kylian Mbappé, have dazzled with their attacking depth, while Spain advanced after edging Belgium, boasting one of the tournament’s strongest defensive records with just one goal conceded.

England and Argentina have leaned heavily on their star players en route to the last four. Harry Kane and Bellingham have each scored six goals for the Three Lions, while Messi and Álvarez have delivered crucial moments for Argentina.

The semi-finals kick off on Tuesday, with France taking on Spain, before England face Argentina on Wednesday. The winners will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19, where one nation will be crowned champions after one of the most fiercely contested tournaments in recent history.