Spain, France, England or Argentina: Who Will Be Crowned 2026 World Cup Champions?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered its decisive stage after Spain, France, England and defending champions Argentina secured places in the semi-finals, setting up two high-profile clashes that will determine the finalists of football’s biggest tournament. The quarter-finals concluded with England defeating Norway 2-1 after extra time and Argentina overcoming Switzerland to complete the semi-final lineup. Spain and France had already advanced after winning their respective quarter-final matches. Spain will face France in the first semi-final, while England will meet Argentina in a renewal of one of international football’s most storied rivalries. Spain booked its place in the last four with a 2-1 victory over Belgium, secured by a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino. Coach Luis de la Fuente’s side has impressed throughout the tournament with its possession-based style, disciplined defending and midfield control. France advanced with another composed display and remains in contention for a second World Cup title in three tournaments after winning the competition in 2018 and finishing runner-up in 2022. Didier Deschamps’ squad has combined experience with attacking depth throughout the campaign. England reached the semi-finals after Jude Bellingham scored twice in a dramatic extra-time victory over Norway. The Real Madrid midfielder equalized before netting the winner in extra time, keeping England’s hopes of winning its first World Cup since 1966 alive. Gareth Southgate’s side has shown resilience throughout the knockout stage and now faces its biggest challenge against the defending champions. Argentina also continued its title defense with a hard-fought victory over Switzerland. Lionel Messi provided his record-breaking 10th FIFA World Cup assist, surpassing Brazilian great Pelé to become the tournament’s all-time leading assist provider. The milestone added another chapter to Messi’s international career as Argentina moved within one victory of a second consecutive World Cup final. Argentina is seeking to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. Lionel Scaloni’s side has blended experienced players led by Messi with a younger generation that has continued the momentum of the country’s 2022 triumph. The expanded 2026 tournament, the first to feature 48 teams, has produced a highly competitive knockout stage, with several traditional football powers and emerging nations delivering memorable performances before the field narrowed to four. With only two matches separating the remaining teams from the trophy, the semi-finals promise two of the tournament’s biggest contests as four former world champions compete for places in the World Cup final. The post Spain, France, England or Argentina: Who Will Be Crowned 2026 World Cup Champions? appeared first on Khaama Press.