Four Teams Remain: The World Cup 2026 Semifinals Are Set
The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals delivered drama, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments across four thrilling matches. France, Spain, England, and Argentina have punched their tickets to the semifinals, setting up two blockbuster clashes that will determine who plays for the ultimate prize on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
France 2-0 Morocco: Mbappé Leads the Way
Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in Foxborough as France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the first quarterfinal on July 9. The French were clinical and composed, replicating the same scoreline from their 2022 semifinal meeting. Mbappé’s early strike set the tone, and France never looked back, controlling possession and stifling Morocco’s counterattacks. Aurélien Tchouaméni added a second-half insurance goal to seal France’s place in the final four, where they will face Spain in Dallas.
Spain 2-1 Belgium: Merino Strikes Late
In the most dramatic quarterfinal of the tournament, Spain edged Belgium 2-1 on July 10 thanks to a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino. Fabián Ruiz had put Spain ahead in the first half with a well-taken strike, but Belgium responded through Charles De Ketelaere’s header before halftime. With the match seemingly heading to extra time, disaster struck for Belgium when substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens—brought on after Thibaut Courtois went off injured—mishandled a routine cross, allowing Merino to pounce and score the 88th-minute winner. Spain now prepares for a semifinal showdown with France on July 14 in Dallas.
England 2-1 Norway (AET): Bellingham the Hero Again
Jude Bellingham delivered yet another iconic performance as England came from behind to beat Norway 2-1 in extra time on July 11. Trailing 1-0 in the second half, Bellingham produced a stunning equalizer before netting the winner in extra time to send England through to the semifinals. Erling Haaland was kept relatively quiet by England’s organized defense, while Bellingham’s relentless energy and quality proved the difference. England now face defending champions Argentina in Miami on July 15.
Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (AET): Messi’s Magic Endures
Defending champions Argentina needed extra time to overcome a resilient Switzerland side on July 12 in Kansas City. After a tightly contested 90 minutes ended 1-1, Lionel Messi produced a moment of brilliance in extra time, setting up two goals as Argentina pulled away to win 3-1. Switzerland, reduced to 10 men late in regulation, fought valiantly but could not contain the World Cup holders. The Argentina vs England semifinal on July 15 will be a rematch of the 2022 World Cup quarterfinal, which Argentina won on penalties.
Semifinal Preview: What to Watch
France vs Spain (July 14, Dallas): A clash of European titans. France’s tournament experience and Mbappé’s explosiveness against Spain’s possession-based control and young stars. Both teams have been impressive defensively, and this match could be decided by a single moment of genius.
England vs Argentina (July 15, Miami): A rematch for the ages. England will be seeking revenge for their 2022 penalty shootout heartbreak, while Argentina looks to continue Messi’s fairytale farewell. Bellingham vs Messi is the narrative that writes itself.
Where the Bets Are Going
With just four teams remaining, betting markets have shifted dramatically. Argentina enters as the narrow favorite to defend their crown, followed by France, England, and Spain. The Golden Boot race remains tight, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham among the leading contenders.
For bettors looking to get in on the action, Kaiyun MK offers the best market coverage on all World Cup 2026 matches, including live in-play betting, boosted odds, and exclusive promotions for the semifinals and final. Whether you are backing Messi to lift the trophy one last time or backing England to finally bring it home, Kaiyun MK has you covered with competitive odds and fast payouts.
Wimbledon 2026: A Fortnight of Thrills
While the World Cup has dominated headlines, Wimbledon 2026 has provided its own share of drama at the All England Club. Czech teenager Linda Nosková captured her first Grand Slam title on July 11, defeating compatriot Karolína Muchová in the women’s singles final to become the youngest Wimbledon champion since 2011. On the men’s side, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner faces French Open champion Alexander Zverev in today’s men’s final at Centre Court.
Looking Ahead
The next week will determine the 2026 World Cup champion. With France and Spain meeting in a European heavyweight bout and England-Argentina carrying the weight of history, fans are in for a spectacular conclusion. At Kaiyun MK, we will have all the odds, analysis, and betting opportunities you need to make the most of every match.