World Cup semi-finals set after 100 matches
After 100 matches in the World Cup 2026, four teams remain in contention. These include France, Spain, England, and Argentina. The semi-final fixtures are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, leading up to the final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium. A bronze-medal match will also take place the day before in Miami.
Kylian Mbappe led France past Morocco, while Lamine Yamal and Spain advanced by defeating Belgium. England eliminated Norway, with Jude Bellingham contributing to their progress. Defending champions Argentina, featuring Lionel Messi, secured their spot by overcoming Switzerland, with Julian Alvarez scoring a goal in extra time.
Key Player Performances
Several players have delivered notable performances in the tournament. Rodri of Spain has been highlighted for his dominant form in midfield, particularly against Belgium. He has completed more passes and carried the ball further than any other player in the tournament so far, contributing to Spain’s possession-based play.
Kylian Mbappe’s impact for France has also been significant. Against Morocco, he not only scored but also created space for teammates, such as Dembele, who extended France’s lead. Mbappe continues to elevate his performance level throughout the competition.
Jude Bellingham has been a central figure for England, with some observers suggesting England’s presence in the semi-finals is largely due to his contributions. He scored twice against Mexico and also against Norway. His influence on the England team is considered substantial, with some noting he is currently outperforming Harry Kane.
Other players have also received recognition. John Stones of England, despite playing limited minutes in 2026 before the tournament, completed a full match against Norway in challenging conditions. Michael Olise has been praised for his performance for France, as has Elliot Anderson for his tireless efforts against Norway, helping to create an equalizer.
The Remaining Teams
The four teams that have reached the semi-finals are considered by many to be the strongest in the tournament. They are also the top four teams in the FIFA world rankings. This suggests a compelling conclusion to the World Cup, featuring teams with world-class talent and considerable squad depth.
Argentina’s squad has demonstrated significant experience and composure, particularly in tense late-game situations. Despite sometimes conceding leads, the team has found ways to win, including an extra-time victory over Cape Verde and a comeback against Egypt. Messi has been central to their efforts, though Alvarez provided a crucial goal against Switzerland.
England’s attack, under manager Thomas Tuchel, is designed around Harry Kane’s playing style, with wingers providing support. This strategy also creates opportunities for Jude Bellingham to make runs toward the goal. Both Bellingham and Kane have scored six goals each through six games, making them key to England’s offensive output.
France has scored 16 goals in six games, largely due to the attacking trio of Mbappe, Dembele, and Olise. Mbappe and Dembele have contributed 13 goals between them, while Olise has a team-leading five assists. Manager Didier Deschamps has adapted his team’s play to leverage this potent attack.
Spain, the Euro 2024 champions, has shown its ability to score, with Mikel Merino providing crucial goals as a substitute in the knockout rounds. Merino, who scored six goals in qualifying, has entered late in matches against Portugal and Belgium, scoring winning goals in both instances. Spain’s goal-scoring has been prolific against some opponents, but they have also experienced stagnant periods in attack.
Upcoming Semi-Finals
The semi-final matches will feature France against Spain and England against Argentina. Key players are expected to influence the outcomes. For the France versus Spain match, Kylian Mbappe is seen as a potential decider, particularly if he can exploit Spain’s defensive structure. Marc Cucurella of Spain will likely have the task of marking Mbappe.
In the England versus Argentina semi-final, Jude Bellingham is anticipated to be a crucial player for England. His ability to score critical goals, make runs to create space, and maintain defensive intensity in midfield will be vital. Messi is also expected to be a key figure for Argentina in this encounter.
Read Also
Source: nytimes.com
