World Cup 2026: Quarterfinal Drama Sets Stage for Electrifying Semifinals
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered everything fans could have hoped for and more, with a quarterfinal round that produced stunning upsets, late heroics, and a pair of mouthwatering semifinal matchups ahead. As the tournament enters its final week, the football world is buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an unforgettable conclusion at MetLife Stadium on July 19.
France Dominate Morocco to Reach Semis
Kylian Mbappe shook off an early missed penalty to score his eighth goal of the tournament as France cruised past Morocco 2-0 in Boston to book their place in the semifinals. The Real Madrid superstar saw his first-half spot-kick saved by Yassine Bounou, but made amends in spectacular fashion with a curling effort from the edge of the box in the 60th minute. Ousmane Dembele doubled the lead six minutes later to seal a comfortable victory for Didier Deschamps’ side.
France now sit as heavy favorites to lift their third World Cup trophy, having won in 1998 and 2018. Ian Wright described them as “one of the most clear favourites for a World Cup tournament I have ever seen,” and it is easy to see why. With Mbappe leading the Golden Boot race on eight goals, level with Lionel Messi but ahead on assists, Les Bleus look formidable across every department.
Spain Edge Belgium in Late Drama
In the second quarterfinal played on Friday, Spain edged past Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles in a contest that showcased the very best of knockout football. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring with a clinical finish in the 30th minute, but Belgium responded before halftime through a brilliant Charles De Ketelaere header.
With the game heading for extra time, Spain boss Luis de la Fuente introduced Mikel Merino in the 86th minute — and the super sub delivered yet again. Merino pounced on a deflection off substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens in the 88th minute to snatch victory for La Roja, setting up a semifinal showdown with France in Dallas on Tuesday.
England vs Norway: The Clash of the Underdogs
England’s remarkable run continued after surviving a tense 3-2 victory over Mexico in the Round of 16, a match that already ranks among the greatest in World Cup history. Jude Bellingham scored a brace and Harry Kane added from the penalty spot as the Three Lions held on with 10 men following Jarell Quansah’s red card at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Standing between England and a place in the final is Norway, who have been the surprise package of the tournament. Erling Haaland has been in devastating form, and the semifinal against England promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. Can Gareth Southgate’s side contain the Manchester City superstar?
Argentina and Switzerland Complete the Semifinal Lineup
Lionel Messi once again rolled back the years as Argentina came from behind to beat Egypt in their quarterfinal clash. Egypt have since lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over the officiating, but Argentina’s quality told as they booked their place in the last four. They face Switzerland, who triumphed in a dramatic penalty shootout against Colombia to continue their own remarkable journey.
The Swiss have been one of the most disciplined sides in the tournament, and their defensive organization will pose a serious test for Messi and Argentina’s attack. Can La Albiceleste repeat their 2022 heroics, or will Switzerland spring another surprise?
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