World Cup Semifinals Kick Off Today: France Battles Spain in Dallas Showdown
The road to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final officially begins today with the first of two high-stakes semifinal matchups.
The story
The FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its penultimate stage today as France and Spain face off in the first semifinal at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kick-off is set for 3:00 p.m.
ET (12:00 p.m. PT).
Both European powerhouses arrive unbeaten in the tournament, with France led by star striker Kylian Mbappé and Spain showcasing a miserly defense that has conceded only one goal. This encounter is widely anticipated as a potential 'early final,' given the quality and form of both sides.
The winner will secure a coveted spot in the final on July 19, while the loser will head to the third-place playoff. Football fans are eager to see which team can break the other's rhythm and advance one step closer to lifting the trophy.
Where it stands
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has reached its thrilling semifinal stage, with four of the world's top-ranked teams vying for a spot in the final. France, Spain, England, and defending champions Argentina have all advanced, setting up two monumental clashes.
The first semifinal sees France take on Spain today, July 14, at Dallas Stadium. The second semifinal will feature England against Argentina on July 15 at Atlanta Stadium. The winners of these matches will progress to the final on July 19, while the losing semifinalists will compete for third place on July 18.
What we'll be watching
- France vs. Spain (Semifinal 1), July 14, Dallas Stadium, 3:00 p.m. ET
- England vs. Argentina (Semifinal 2), July 15, Atlanta Stadium, 3:00 p.m. ET
- Third-Place Playoff (Loser SF1 vs. Loser SF2), July 18, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, 5:00 p.m. ET
- FIFA World Cup 2026 Final (Winner SF1 vs. Winner SF2), July 19, MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey, 3:00 p.m. ET
Reporting + analyst voices: grounded via Google Search at publish time.