The star-studded World Cup semifinals kick off with France vs. Spain
The FIFA World Cup semifinals are set to feature top-ranked teams France, Spain, Argentina, and England in high-stakes matches held in the United States. The tournament has reached its final stages with France and Spain facing off in Texas, followed by Argentina and England in Georgia.
Why it matters
This event represents a major global sporting milestone, highlighting the competitive landscape of international soccer at the highest level.
Late last year, when the FIFA World Cup draw was set, the world's four top-ranked teams were placed in opposite corners of a new, expanded knockout bracket.
Soccer Edition Messi and Argentina survive another close call to reach the World Cup semifinals Spain, Argentina, France and England have held FIFA's top four international spots for almost exactly two years. Now, they will face each other for the right to hoist the World Cup trophy: France versus Spain on Tuesday in Arlington, Texas, followed by Argentina against England on Wednesday in Atlanta — then the winners' faceoff at Sunday's final in East Rutherford, N.J.
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