2026 World Cup: Four Teams Remain After Quarterfinals

Final Four Lineup

The 2026 World Cup has been narrowed to France, Spain, England and Argentina after the quarterfinals. All four were the favorites to reach this stage when the tournament opened, making for a tightly contested group. There will be no matches until Tuesday, giving fans a brief breather after a month of intense action. The remaining teams bring a mix of historic rivalries—think a replay of the 1635 Franco‑Spanish conflict on one side and echoes of the 1982 Falklands War on the other—adding extra drama to the upcoming semifinals.

Quarterfinal Highlights

England advanced past Norway 2‑1, with Schjlederup scoring in the 32nd minute before Bellingham struck twice in stoppage time (45+2’ and 93’). A goal‑kick that seemed to deflect off a spider‑cam cable set up one of England’s goals, while Norway’s equaliser was overturned after Erling Haaland pushed an opponent before the corner. England looked out of sync for the first 20 minutes but found their rhythm in the second half. Bellingham’s creativity shone through, and Djed Spence once again impressed Thomas Tuchel with a strong late‑sub appearance.

• Norway 1 – Schjlederup (32′)
• England 2 – Bellingham (45+2′, 93′)

Argentina’s Road to the Semifinals

Argentina secured a 3‑1 victory over Switzerland, with Mac Allister opening the scoring in the 10th minute, Ndoye replying in the 67th, and Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez adding late strikes in extra time (112′ and 120+1′). The Swiss were undone by a blatant dive from Breel Embolo, which earned a second yellow and his ejection. Mac Allister’s sunburned appearance added a quirky moment, while Alvarez’s extra‑time goal was described as a magnificent strike that sealed the win.

• Argentina 1 – Mac Allister (10′)
• Switzerland 1 – Ndoye (67′)
• Argentina 2 – Alvarez (112′)
• Argentina 3 – Lautaro Martinez (120+1′)

What Lies Ahead

With the semifinals still weeks away, the tournament will pause until Tuesday, giving teams time to strategize. Any of the four finalists could emerge victorious, as recent matches have shown unpredictable twists and individual brilliance. The mix of historic tensions and modern football skill sets up a compelling showdown that promises high stakes and exciting football.

Who do you see topping the bracket? Drop your pick in the comments below and join the discussion!