Spain Strike First in Dallas Semi-Final
The 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals are delivering all the drama football fans could hope for. In the first semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, Spain took control of a tense encounter against France, leading 1-0 through Mikel Oyarzabal’s calmly converted first-half penalty.
The Real Sociedad striker, who now has five goals in the tournament, stepped up after Lucas Digne was penalised for a clumsy challenge on the electrifying Lamine Yamal inside the box. Oyarzabal sent Mike Maignan the wrong way from 12 yards, sparking celebrations among the Spanish contingent in a packed Dallas Stadium crowd.
France, who had not conceded a goal in 358 minutes of play since their group-stage defeat of Norway, found themselves on the back foot against a supremely confident Spanish side that has impressed throughout the tournament. Despite the presence of Kylian Mbappé on the counter-attack — including one darting run that forced a desperate block from goalkeeper Unai Simón — Les Bleus struggled to break down Spain’s disciplined defensive structure.
Spain’s Tactical Masterclass
Luis de la Fuente’s Spain have been the standout team of the tournament, combining their traditional possession-based approach with a new-found cutting edge. The emergence of 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal has given La Roja a genuine threat in wide areas, while the midfield trio of Rodri, Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz has controlled games with remarkable authority.
Spain’s journey to the semi-finals included dramatic victories over Portugal — ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career with a stoppage-time winner — and a hard-fought quarter-final win against Belgium, where Mikel Merino’s late header proved decisive. France arrived in Dallas after sweeping past Paraguay and Morocco in the knockout stages, but found Spain a different proposition entirely.
England vs Argentina: Wednesday’s Blockbuster
All eyes now turn to Wednesday, 15 July, when England face Argentina in the second semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. It is a heavyweight matchup dripping with history and star power — a rematch of the 2022 quarter-final that Argentina won on penalties before going on to lift the trophy.
England, led by Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, advanced past Norway in a commanding performance, while Argentina survived a dramatic extra-time battle against Switzerland. Lionel Messi, now 39, is chasing one more World Cup final appearance before what is expected to be his international retirement, adding an extra layer of narrative to an already compelling fixture.
The winner of England vs Argentina will face the victor of France vs Spain in the final on Sunday, 19 July, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
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The semi-finals are just the beginning — the final at MetLife Stadium promises to be a spectacular conclusion to a tournament that has captivated the world. Whether you are backing Spain’s disciplined possession game, France’s counter-attacking brilliance, England’s depth, or Argentina’s never-say-die spirit, MK Sports has the markets you need.
What to Watch For in the Final Stages
Kylian Mbappé’s impact: The French superstar has been relatively quiet in the semi-final so far, but his ability to change a game in an instant makes France dangerous even when behind.
Spain’s relentless press: La Roja have suffocated opponents throughout the tournament. If they hold on against France, they will be formidable in the final.
England’s golden generation: With Bellingham, Kane, Saka, and Foden all in top form, this could be England’s best chance at silverware since 1966.
Argentina’s resilience: Never count out a Messi-led Argentina. Their ability to grind out results in knockout football is unmatched.
Stay tuned to MK Sports for all the latest World Cup 2026 betting odds, match previews, and expert analysis. The road to the final runs through Dallas, Atlanta, and ultimately East Rutherford — and MK Sports is your ticket to every moment.