France Advances to World Cup Semifinals with Mbappé and Dembélé Leading the Way

At the 2026 World Cup, the competition tightens as the quarterfinals narrow the field to eight teams. France remains undefeated, having won all six matches without extra time, after beating Morocco 2-0.

Kylian Mbappé kept up his strong form by scoring early in the second half, reclaiming the lead over Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race. Both stars now have eight goals, but Mbappé edges ahead with more assists. Shortly after, Ousmane Dembélé sealed the victory for Les Bleus, securing France's third straight World Cup semifinal appearance.

Mbappé took a knock late in the match and was substituted, but it doesn't seem serious. France will now face the winner of the upcoming Belgium vs. Spain quarterfinal.

Quarterfinals Recap and Schedule

Spain has not conceded a goal yet at this World Cup, scoring nine times and keeping six clean sheets—a record streak. Their defense has been impenetrable, allowing the fewest high-quality shots among knockout teams.

Belgium crushed the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16 despite missing key midfielder Amadou Onana due to injury. Belgium’s strategy involved avoiding U.S. pressure effectively, and they might try the same against Spain.

Belgium’s coach, Rudi Garcia, is known for pushing hard late in games, suggesting Belgium could find chances even against Spain’s stout defense. We think both teams scoring is a reasonable bet.

Spain Aims to Extend Unbeaten Streak

Spain will face Belgium in Inglewood, California, on Friday at 3 p.m. ET. The odds favor Spain heavily, but Belgium's experience and firepower could challenge them.

Spain's goalkeeper, Unai Simón, leads the tournament with five clean sheets and has not allowed a goal in over 600 minutes. Belgium, meanwhile, is fighting to extend the careers of stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, and Romelu Lukaku, who were key players in their strong 2018 showing.

The Quarterfinals Highlight Elite Talent

This phase features six of the top eight FIFA-ranked teams. Titans like Mbappé for France, Messi for Argentina, Haaland for Norway, and Kane for England dominate both play and stats, delivering unforgettable moments.

Messi set the record for most World Cup career goals, Haaland impressed with powerful long-range shots, and Kane overcame his penalty struggles. They are all close to double-digit goals, setting up thrilling semifinals.

England Prepares for Norway Showdown

England’s recent win at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca marks one of its best away victories in major tournaments. They now face Norway and striker Erling Haaland on Saturday, hoping to build on their success rather than fall back into past disappointments.

Christian Pulisic’s Injury and Criticism

USMNT star Christian Pulisic suffered a bone bruise and microfracture in his right leg during the loss to Belgium. Former USWNT player Carli Lloyd had criticized him before the injury news but maintained her stance afterward, citing his absence from last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.

USA-Belgium Match Sets Viewership Record

The Round of 16 match between the United States and Belgium attracted over 33 million viewers on Fox, becoming the most-watched soccer game in U.S. history. Including Telemundo’s Spanish broadcast, nearly 45 million people tuned in, signaling the sport's growing popularity.

Mbappé Leads Golden Boot Race After Another Goal

Mbappé’s goal against Morocco puts him atop the Golden Boot race due to his three assists compared to Messi’s single assist. Both missed penalties in the same game, but Mbappé’s goal helped France secure the win. He seems okay despite an ankle injury, celebrating energetically after the match.

France now aims for its third consecutive World Cup final, looking like strong contenders for the title.