FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals: Match Schedule & Details

Following a high-drama quarter-final stage that concluded with Argentina's tense extra-time triumph over Switzerland and England's hard-fought victory against Norway, the final four teams of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are locked in. Four of global football's absolute heaviest titans—France, Spain, England, and Argentina—will battle it out for a spot in the World Cup Final.  

Semi-Final Schedule (Indian Standard Time)

For fans tracking the action from India, both historic encounters are scheduled for late-night slots:

Matchup	Date (IST)	Kick-off Time (IST)	Venue
France vs. Spain	Wednesday, July 15, 2026	12:30 AM IST	Dallas Stadium (Arlington, Texas)
England vs. Argentina	Thursday, July 16, 2026	12:30 AM IST	Atlanta Stadium (Atlanta, Georgia)

Deep-Dive: Match Previews & Team Context

France vs. Spain: The Clash of European Royalty

This match sets up what many consider the ultimate tactical chess match between Europe's two top-ranked footballing nations.

• France: Led by Didier Deschamps, Les Bleus booked their path through the knockouts by shutting down Paraguay (1-0) and comfortably handling tournament surprise package Morocco (2-0). Kylian Mbappé remains their focal threat as France aims to reach their third final in the last four editions.  

• Spain: La Roja have set the tournament standard for dynamic, possession-focused play. Driven by their youthful attacking wingers, notably Lamine Yamal, Spain navigated a grueling bracket by eliminating Portugal (1-0) and holding off a fierce Belgium side (2-1) in the quarter-finals.  

England vs. Argentina: An Immortal Global Rivalry

A new chapter is set to be written in one of international football's most politically and historically charged rivalries. This marks the only semi-final matchup featuring a South American representative.

• England: The Three Lions have shown immense grit under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, coming from behind to sink hosts Mexico (3-2) despite a red card, and outlasting Norway (2-1) in extra time courtesy of Jude Bellingham's tournament-defining brace.  

• Argentina: The defending world champions have endured an incredibly physical knockout journey. Lionel Scaloni’s side survived a tight encounter against Egypt (3-2) before conquering a chaotic, ten-man Switzerland squad (3-1) in deep extra time, driven by decisive goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez.  

  
  

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