The 2026 World Cup has reached its final four, with France, Spain, Argentina and England still competing for football’s biggest prize.

France will face Spain in one semi-final, while defending champions Argentina meet England in the other. The winners will advance to Sunday’s final in New York.

France and Spain prepare for a heavyweight clash

France enter the closing stages with one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacks. Kylian Mbappé leads a group that also includes Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Désiré Doué, giving the team several ways to decide a close match.

Spain’s strength lies in controlling possession and dictating the rhythm of games. Their chances may depend on limiting France’s counter-attacks and getting another influential performance from young star Lamine Yamal.

Argentina’s experience meets England’s ambition

Argentina are attempting to become only the third nation to retain the World Cup. Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez remain capable of producing decisive moments, while the team’s tournament experience makes them difficult to break down.

England are seeking their first men’s World Cup final appearance since winning the competition in 1966. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane give the side elite quality, although the team is still working to establish a consistent identity under pressure.

Predictions remain divided

BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty predicted that England would defeat Argentina but ultimately backed France to win the trophy. Spanish journalist Guillem Balagué described all four sides as credible champions and suggested England’s combination of talent and personality could make this their summer.

With the world’s four highest-ranked teams reaching the semi-finals, small tactical decisions and individual moments are likely to determine who reaches the final.

Source: World Cup analysis published by BBC Sport.