France, Spain, Argentina, and England: The historic World Cup semifinals

The 2026 World Cup has reached its decisive stage with four football giants, France, Spain, Argentina, and England, competing in the semifinals. This lineup is historic, marking the fourth occasion since the FIFA rankings began that the four highest-ranked teams have simultaneously reached the World Cup semifinals.

Adding to the historical significance, this is only the fourth time in the tournament's history that all four semifinalists are previous World Cup champions. Argentina leads the pack with three titles (1978, 1986, 2022), followed by France with two (1998, 2018). Spain (2010) and England (1966) are each seeking their second world title.

The semifinals promise compelling matchups. France will face Spain in the first game on July 14 in Arlington, Dallas. This encounter renews a significant European rivalry, with Spain having recently defeated France in the Euro 2020 semifinals and the UEFA Nations League semifinals. The second semifinal, on July 15 in Atlanta, will see Argentina take on England, reviving one of the most storied rivalries in World Cup history. Notably, this will be Lionel Messi's first encounter with England in a senior international match.