World Cup 2026 Semifinals: Four Former Champions Battle for the Title

After a grueling 100 matches, the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup feature only soccer's elite: France, Spain, Argentina, and England. These four former champions stand nearly even in strength, making the competition extremely close.

The tournament has seen surprises—Cape Verde’s spirited play, Mexico’s Azteca magic, and the U.S. team’s vibrant performances, which ended suddenly and painfully. Iconic players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić made their final appearances. Traditional powers such as Brazil, Germany, and Uruguay stumbled early, while Morocco confirmed their 2022 success was no accident. Respect goes to smaller teams like Curaçao, Ivory Coast, and Panama, whose efforts were noteworthy.

Fans from the Netherlands, Norway, and Scotland brought lively energy throughout the event, but now only the giants remain. The semifinals begin Tuesday at the state-of-the-art AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with France taking on Spain. One day later, reigning champion Argentina faces England at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The winners will meet Sunday at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.

All Four Teams Are Heavyweights

Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente said, “Everyone is a heavyweight. If we talk about the gap between teams, it’s very tight.” Unlike past tournaments with clear underdogs, these semifinalists are all top-ranked and experienced. This marks the first time since 1990 that the final four includes only previous champions and the first time they hold the top four FIFA rankings.

France and Spain have crossed paths recently, including last summer’s thrilling 5-4 Nations League semifinal, won by Spain, who also defeated France in the Euro 2024 semis. The draw placed them on a collision course this World Cup.

“We know this might be a spectacular game,” said French coach Didier Deschamps, who plans to step down after 14 years and four World Cups. When asked if Spain remains the favorite, he replied, “Yes. If you’ve seen what they’ve done, they have confirmed they’re the favorite.”

Since losing to Spain last year, France has gone 15-1-1, dominating six World Cup matches with a 16-2 goal difference. Spain remains unbeaten in 36 matches over 28 months, conceding only one goal in the quarterfinals after five clean sheets.

France becomes just the third team to reach three consecutive World Cup semifinals, joining Germany and Brazil.

Key Players and Rivalries

Spanish star Lamine Yamal celebrated his 19th birthday just before facing France. He clarified comments made after beating Belgium, emphasizing that Spain fears no opponent.

French midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery added, “We are the French national team. We are not afraid of anybody.” The match will showcase two of the world's brightest talents, Kylian Mbappé for France and Yamal for Spain.

Deschamps acknowledged Yamal’s unpredictability but noted, “We have many solutions.” Zaire-Emery praised Yamal’s exceptional skills but reminded everyone, “It’s a collective sport.”

Yamal's defining moment at this World Cup may still lie ahead, according to de la Fuente.

Mbappé, reportedly fully fit after an injury scare, shares the Golden Boot lead with Argentina’s Lionel Messi, both having scored eight goals this tournament. Mbappé holds a record 12 knockout stage goals across three World Cups.

Argentina and England Seek Glory

The other semifinal features Argentina, aiming to become the first repeat World Cup winner since Brazil in 1962, against England, desperate to end a 60-year trophy drought.

Argentina’s path included narrow escapes against Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland. Messi reflected on the pressure of defending the title: “It’s not easy coming from being world champions and continuing to compete at the highest level.”

England showed grit in comeback wins over DR Congo, Mexico, and Norway, overcoming stars like Erling Haaland.

Striker Harry Kane told BBC Radio, “We want to get over the line. That is the missing piece now.”

Looking Ahead

The France-Spain clash featuring Mbappé and Yamal opens the door to an exciting final. Yamal spent part of his birthday relaxed with his young half-brother, hoping for a victory and a trip to New York for the final.