World Cup 2026: FIFA's top four teams reach semi-finals for first time

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered a landmark moment in international football history after Argentina, Spain, France and England all secured places in the semi-finals.

It marks the first time since FIFA introduced its official world rankings in 1992 that the four highest-ranked national teams have all progressed to the tournament's final four.

With four former world champions still standing, football fans are now set for two heavyweight semi-final clashes that could rank among the greatest in World Cup history.

Argentina renew fierce rivalry with England

Defending champions Argentina will face England in Atlanta with a place in the World Cup final on the line. The fixture revives one of football's most iconic rivalries, shaped by unforgettable World Cup meetings stretching back decades.

Among the most memorable encounters were:

• England's controversial quarter-final victory in 1966.
• Diego Maradona's famous "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century" in Argentina's 1986 triumph.
• Argentina's penalty shootout win in 1998 following David Beckham's red card.
• England's revenge through David Beckham's winning penalty during the 2002 group stage.

This year's meeting carries enormous significance as Argentina attempt to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago. Victory would move Lionel Messi one step closer to a second World Cup crown and make Argentina the first nation to successfully defend the trophy since Brazil in 1962.

France face familiar opponents Spain

On the opposite side of the draw, France will meet Spain in Arlington in another blockbuster encounter. The two European heavyweights continue a growing rivalry after Spain defeated France in the UEFA European Championship semi-finals two years ago.

France arrive in excellent form, boasting arguably the tournament's most dangerous attack led by Kylian Mbappe, while Spain have repeatedly demonstrated resilience by producing dramatic late victories throughout the knockout rounds.

The winner will advance to Sunday's World Cup final.

Golden Boot Race Intensifies

The semi-finals also promise another fascinating chapter in the race for the tournament's Golden Boot.

Current standings include:

• Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals
• Kylian Mbappe (France) – 8 goals
• Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7 goals (eliminated)
• Jude Bellingham (England) – 6 goals
• Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals
• Ousmane Dembele (France) – 5 goals

Mbappe and Messi are also closing in on another historic milestone. Messi has now scored 21 World Cup goals across his career, while Mbappe sits one behind on 20, setting up another fascinating battle over the tournament's remaining matches.

Four former champions chasing glory

The final four represent some of the most successful nations in World Cup history.

• Argentina – Three-time champions and defending title holders
• England – Winners in 1966
• France – Champions in 1998 and 2018
• Spain – Winners in 2010

It is the first time since 1990 that all four semi-finalists have previously lifted the World Cup trophy. That year, Argentina reached the final before losing to West Germany. History could repeat itself this year, or produce an entirely new chapter.

Messi eyes more history

At 39, Lionel Messi continues to strengthen his legacy in what is widely expected to be his final World Cup appearance. Should Argentina retain the title, Messi would become one of the few players to lead his country to multiple World Cup triumphs while helping Argentina achieve a feat not seen for more than six decades.

With England standing in their way and France and Spain battling on the opposite side of the bracket, the road to football's biggest prize has never looked more compelling.