World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals: Spain Joins France in Semi-Finals as Norway-England Showdown Looms
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to deliver edge-of-your-seat drama as the quarter-final stage reaches its climax this weekend. With France and Spain already securing their places in the semi-finals, all eyes now turn to Saturday’s blockbuster clashes — Norway vs England and Argentina vs Switzerland — as the race for World Cup glory intensifies across the United States.
Spain Edge Past Belgium in Late Drama
Spain became the second team to book a semi-final berth after Mikel Merino’s 88th-minute strike sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on Friday. Merino, who came off the bench, pounced on a rebound from Belgium backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens to fire Spain into the final four for the first time since their 2010 triumph.
The result sets up a tantalizing semi-final clash against France in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday — a repeat of the Euro 2024 semi-final that saw Spain triumph on their way to continental glory. Belgium had equalized through Charles De Ketelaere after Dani Olmo’s opener, but Merino’s late intervention broke Belgian hearts.
France Cruise Past Morocco Behind Mbappe Brilliance
France powered into the semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over Morocco at the Boston Stadium on July 9. Kylian Mbappe was the catalyst, scoring a stunning first-half goal before turning provider for Ousmane Dembélé six minutes later to seal the win. The reigning Ballon d’Or contender has now scored eight goals in the tournament, equalling Lionel Messi’s tournament-leading tally, and has netted 11 goals across his last seven World Cup appearances.
France’s form has made them the bookmakers’ favorites to lift the trophy, with odds shortening to +150 at several major sportsbooks. The French attack appears to be hitting top gear at exactly the right moment, having scored at least two goals in four of their five matches so far.
Norway vs England: The Tie That Has Betters Talking
Saturday’s marquee quarter-final pits England against a Norway side powered by the tournament’s most feared striker. Erling Haaland has been in devastating form, scoring six goals in four matches as Norway have swept aside Iraq, Senegal, and topped their group despite a heavy defeat to France with qualification already secured.
England, meanwhile, have been quietly efficient. Harry Kane (five goals) and Jude Bellingham (five goals) have combined for ten goals between them, making England’s attack one of the most potent in the tournament. The Three Lions have won four of their five matches and are priced as favourites at -106 on the moneyline, with the draw at +250 and Norway at +280.
For bettors looking at this match, the over 2.5 goals market offers compelling value at -135. England’s attack has averaged 2.02 expected goals per game over their last ten outings, while Norway’s matches have consistently produced goals at both ends. The both teams to score (BTTS) market also looks attractive given the attacking talent on display.
England are priced at +460 to win the tournament outright, while Norway are available at +1600 — representing significant value if Haaland can produce another masterclass.
Argentina Face Switzerland Test
Defending champions Argentina face a resurgent Switzerland side in Kansas City on Saturday in what promises to be another tightly-contested affair. Lionel Messi has been the driving force for La Albiceleste, scoring eight goals so far, including a brace in their dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the round of 16. Argentina have not lost in 11 World Cup matches — their longest undefeated streak in history.
Switzerland advanced past Colombia on penalties after a goalless draw and will be full of confidence having already exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter-finals for the first time since they hosted the tournament in 1954. Argentina are strong favourites at -310 to advance, while Switzerland can be backed at +240.
World Cup 2026 Betting Analysis: Where the Value Lies
With the tournament entering its decisive phase, the outright betting markets continue to shift. France remain the bookmakers’ clear favourites at +150, ahead of Spain at +300 following their dramatic quarter-final victory. Argentina are priced at +440, with England at +460 and Norway at +1600.
The semi-final matchups are beginning to take shape. If form holds, we could see a France vs Spain semi-final that would be a rematch of their Euro 2024 classic, while the other half of the draw could produce an Argentina vs England blockbuster — a fixture that would capture global attention.
For value seekers, Spain at +300 to win the tournament after dispatching Belgium offers appeal, while England’s deeper odds at +460 could look extremely generous if they navigate past Norway and Argentina or Switzerland.
Matchday: How to Watch and Bet
Saturday’s quarter-final action kicks off with Norway vs England at 5:00 PM ET, followed by Argentina vs Switzerland later in the evening. Both matches are available on Fox Sports in the United States and across various broadcasters globally.
As the World Cup reaches its pivotal moment, every match carries immense significance. Whether you’re backing France’s firepower, Spain’s tactical brilliance, Messi’s magic, or England’s depth, the 2026 World Cup promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
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