What to know about the World Cup semifinals: Which teams are playing, schedules, biggest stars
The 2026 World Cup has reached the semifinal stage with France, Spain, England, and Argentina remaining in the tournament. The upcoming matches will determine which two teams advance to the final on July 19.
Why it matters
The World Cup is a major global sporting event that draws significant international viewership and economic activity.
The 2026 World Cup has its final four. After 48 teams competed in over 97 matches this summer, the stage is set for the tournament’s semifinals. The two winners from this next round will compete in the World Cup final on July 19.
Here’s what to know as the tournament winds down.
There are just four teams left in the running for the coveted World Cup trophy: France, Spain, England and Argentina.
Argentina's Lionel Messi and teammates celebrate their 3-1 victory over Switzerland in their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match in Kansas City, July 11, 2026. Odd Andersen/AFP via Getty Images Defending champions Argentina defeated Switzerland on Saturday in an extra-time thriller. The match was tied 1-1 after the second half, before Argentina's Julian Alvarez scored in the 112th minute. Less than 10 minutes, Lautaro Martinez scored Argentina's third goal.
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