England beat Norway behind two goals from Jude Bellingham, while Argentina defeated Switzerland with a goal from Julián Alvarez in extra time. The 23-year-old Bellingham was described as being "everywhere on the pitch" as he inspired his team past Erling Haaland's Norway. Alvarez scored what was called an "absolute worldie" in extra time to help Argentina advance, though the match also featured a controversial VAR call. Both Bellingham and Harry Kane have scored six goals in the competition, carrying England through difficult matches. England was last in a World Cup semifinal in 2018 but lost to Croatia.
Argentina has relied on Lionel Messi and his teammates to advance, with the defending champion scoring the most goals of anyone in the competition with 17. The team has flirted with elimination on more than one occasion but knows how to win ugly when necessary. Argentina has the added advantage of experience, with many members of the current squad winning the title in 2022. Despite not being a beautiful team to watch, Argentina has found ways to produce moments of brilliance in the knockout rounds. Argentina will face England in the semifinal.
France will play Spain in the other semifinal in Dallas on Tuesday. France has been considered the tournament favorite and has advanced with ease, barely getting out of first gear according to observers. The team has relied on its ridiculously talented front line, with Kylian Mbappé proving superb with his pace and directness. He is supported by Ousmane Dembélé and other attackers who make France a frightening opponent. Legendary manager Didier Deschamps is leaving his role after this tournament, and France will be looking to replicate its 2018 success by sending him away with another World Cup winner's medal.
Spain has also reached the semifinals though it has not set the world alight with its performances. Teenage superstar Lamine Yamal has yet to really thrive, which might be related to an injury he was nursing coming into the tournament. However, the midfield and defense are looking strong, and Spain has conceded just one goal the entire tournament. Despite France being the narrow favorite, recent history favors Spain. La Roja beat France in the Euro 2024 semifinals, a tournament it went on to win, and also defeated Les Bleus in the Nations League last year. The winner of the France-Spain match will likely be favorite to win the title on July 19.