2026 FIFA World Cup Semifinals: Schedule and Results Update

The final week of the 2026 World Cup is underway with the tournament now down to its last four teams. This edition, the largest ever with 48 nations competing across North America, began in mid-June. After weeks of fierce matches, only four squads remain, each still dreaming of lifting the trophy.

The semifinal stage promises thrilling contests featuring some of the world's biggest soccer stars on a grand stage. These matches often mark the point where championship hopes turn into serious possibilities.

Semifinal Teams and Paths

One semifinal will feature France, winners of Group I, who knocked out Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco in previous rounds, facing Spain, Group H winners who defeated Austria, Portugal, and Belgium.

The other semifinal pits England, who topped Group L and eliminated DR Congo, Mexico, and Norway, against Argentina, Group J champions, who overcame Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland.

How the Semifinals Work

The semifinals involve two matches, with winners advancing to the final set for July 19. The losing teams will contest the third-place game on July 18. Each remaining team has already endured three group matches and three knockout rounds, making their presence here well-earned.

What If Matches Are Tied?

If a knockout match is tied after 90 minutes, the game moves to extra time: two 15-minute halves plus stoppage time. This is not sudden death; play continues until the full 30 minutes finish. Should the deadlock persist, a penalty shootout decides the winner. Five players per team take turns shooting; if still tied, sudden-death rounds continue until one team prevails.

Advancing Through the Tournament

The tournament began with 48 teams split into 12 groups of four. Each team played three games, with the top two from each group moving on. Additionally, eight of the twelve best third-place teams advanced to the Round of 32 based on points earned.

The knockout rounds follow a single-elimination format. Each win advances a team closer to the title, while losses mean elimination. To claim the World Cup, a team must win five knockout matches after the group stage.