World Cup 2026: The Final Four Are Set

For the first time in World Cup history, the tournament's top four ranked sides have all reached the semi-finals, setting up two heavyweight ties in the United States this week.

On Tuesday in Arlington, France meet Spain at AT&T Stadium. France, the 2018 champions, are the bookmakers' favourites, with Opta's model giving them the best chance of reaching the final. Kylian Mbappé has now made the semi-finals in all three of his World Cup appearances. Spain, back in the last four for the first time since their 2010 triumph, have relied on Mikel Merino, whose late goals saw off both Portugal and Belgium in the knockout rounds.

Wednesday in Atlanta brings England against Argentina, a fixture with plenty of history. England reached the semi-finals after Jude Bellingham's extra-time double beat Norway, and are chasing a first World Cup title since 1966. Argentina, the defending champions, edged Switzerland 3-1 after extra time. Lionel Messi has scored eight goals in six matches and is looking to reach a second consecutive final.

The winners will meet on 19 July at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with the third-place match taking place in Miami the day before.

On current form, all four have a genuine claim. France carry the strongest numbers, but Spain's resilience, England's momentum and Argentina's experience mean the outcome is far from settled.