As the 2026 World Cup reaches its thrilling climax, the stage is set for four national teams—France, Spain, Argentina, and England—each carrying a rich history with eight world titles among them. These teams are vying for a spot in the grand finale, scheduled for July 19 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.
The semifinal lineup features a face-off between France and Spain on Tuesday at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, while Argentina will battle England on Wednesday at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The outcomes of these matches will determine the two teams that will compete for the prestigious trophy, and the tournament offers just four potential matchups, each steeped in its own historical significance.
A Battle Never Fought: France vs. England
A showdown between France and England would mark a novel encounter, as they have never clashed in a World Cup final. France is eyeing its third championship and seeking a third consecutive final appearance, whereas England hasn't claimed a major title since 1966. This matchup would also spotlight club teammates Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid, facing off on the world's biggest football stage.
A Rematch of Epic Proportions: Argentina vs. France
Another scenario is the highly anticipated rematch of the Qatar 2022 final between Argentina and France, considered by many as the greatest final in tournament history. That intense showdown concluded in a 3-3 draw after extra time, with Argentina prevailing 4-2 in the penalty shootout, despite Mbappé's impressive hat-trick. Four years later, both teams enter with added motivation, as Lionel Messi and Mbappé are tied with eight goals each in the race for the Golden Boot, though the Frenchman currently leads in assists.
European Showdown: Spain vs. England
If Spain overcomes France and England defeats Argentina, the World Cup will showcase a rematch of the Euro 2024 final, which Spain won 2-1 with goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal. Spain aims to replicate that success on the grandest stage, while England seeks to heal the wounds of losing two consecutive European finals.
Unprecedented Duel: Spain vs. Argentina
The final scenario, Spain vs. Argentina, would be another first in World Cup history. This encounter pits the European champions against the world champions, with a generational clash between Lamine Yamal and Messi as an intriguing subplot. Spain hopes to secure its second star, while Argentina seeks to defend its title and become the first team to do so since Brazil in 1962.
The Argentina versus England semifinal carries significance beyond the soccer field. The rivalry is colored by historical events such as the Falklands War and the legendary 1986 match in Mexico, where Diego Maradona scored "The Hand of God" and "The Goal of the Century." For Messi, who has never faced England in a World Cup, this encounter represents a new chapter in his illustrious career.
The Argentine captain has already stirred the pre-match atmosphere with defiant words: "Playing against England will be special, and our team is in peak condition," he stated, adding, "A lot of nonsense was said during the week, and we want to dedicate this match to those idiots."
No matter the outcome of the semifinals, the 2026 World Cup promises a unique milestone: for the first time since 1934, all four semifinalists are previous world champions, guaranteeing a final between teams familiar with the glory of lifting the cup.
Common Questions About the 2026 World Cup Semifinals
Who are the semifinalists in the 2026 World Cup?
The semifinalists are France, Spain, Argentina, and England, all of whom are previous World Cup champions.
What are the potential final matchups?
The possible final matchups are France vs. England, Argentina vs. France, Spain vs. England, and Spain vs. Argentina.
Has France ever played England in a World Cup final?
No, France and England have never faced each other in a World Cup final.