England, Argentina Set for Epic World Cup Semi-final After Dramatic Quarter-final Triumphs

Posted : 12 July 2026

England and Argentina will renew one of football's greatest rivalries after both secured hard-fought victories in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, earning places in a highly anticipated semi-final clash in Atlanta. The winner will progress to the World Cup final, where either France or Spain awaits after their semi-final in Texas.

England reached the last four after edging Norway 2-1 following extra time in Miami. Jude Bellingham proved to be the hero with two goals, including the decisive strike in extra time, as the Three Lions advanced to only their fourth World Cup semi-final.

Norway had taken the lead through Andreas Schjelderup before England responded in controversial fashion when Bellingham equalised after a move that Norwegian players believed should have been halted because the ball appeared to strike an overhead camera cable. FIFA later stated there was no evidence to support the claim, allowing the goal to stand.

Despite celebrating qualification, England manager Thomas Tuchel admitted his side fell below expectations. The German coach described his team's display as fortunate and insisted significant improvement will be required if they are to overcome Argentina and reach the final. Norway manager Stale Solbakken also expressed frustration over the disputed equaliser but accepted the decision could not be changed.

Argentina, meanwhile, had to battle through another physically demanding contest before defeating Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister gave the defending champions an early advantage with a header from Lionel Messi's corner, but Switzerland responded through Dan Ndoye midway through the second half to force a tense finish.

The match swung in Argentina's favour when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card following a VAR review. Even with a numerical disadvantage, Switzerland defended resolutely and looked capable of forcing a penalty shootout before Julian Alvarez produced a sensational curling effort into the top corner in the 112th minute. Lautaro Martinez later sealed the victory with a stoppage-time goal in extra time.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his players for overcoming another difficult test, acknowledging that his team struggled to break down Switzerland's organised defence. He admitted the dismissal played a significant role in the outcome but credited his squad's resilience for securing another place in the World Cup's final four.

Wednesday's semi-final promises another memorable chapter in the fierce football rivalry between England and Argentina. With a place in the World Cup final at stake, both teams will enter the contest carrying confidence after surviving difficult knockout encounters, although each manager knows improvements will be necessary against elite opposition.

England, Argentina Set for Epic World Cup Semi-final After Dramatic Quarter-final Triumphs

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