Semi-Finals World Cup 2026 – Top Projections for 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has not been without its controversy, both on and off the pitch, but there is no denying that it has served up some pulsating and memorable football matches. We're now at the quarter-final stage and the bookmakers have given a clear steer on which nations they think will be making it into the semi-final.

Here we take a look at what that means for the potential semi-final ties.

Also, feel free to check out our dedicated World Cup predictions & betting tips page which we will keep updated throughout the tournament.

Semi-Finals World Cup 2026 – What are the projected match-ups?

Projected Semi-Final 1: France vs Spain

Before a ball was kicked at the World Cup, France vs Spain was the bookmakers pick to be the first semi-final. Now, with just one round to go before we know the semi-final lineup, that remains the case.

The two nations have never met in a World Cup semi-final before, and in fact have only played each other once in the tournament's history!

That was in 2006 in the round of 16, where France won 3-1 as they progressed all the way to the final, losing out to Italy. With both nations ranked the best and third-best in the world respectively by FIFA, this would promise to be an exciting match-up, although there are bound to be some shocks along the way that may not see this fixture come into fruition.

One thing that has changed since the bookies first made this prediction, however, is the side they fancy to win this projected tie. France have now shifted ahead of Spain in the betting.

Projected Semi-Final 2: England vs Argentina

The bookies nailed their prediction for the second World Cup semi-final projection as well, with England vs Argentina still the duo expected to face off for a Final place. Both nations have endured shaky moments during the road to the quarter-finals but, of course, in knockout football, getting the job done is all that matters.

Interestingly, they have played each other five times at the World Cup before, but never in the semi-final or beyond.

The most famous clash was Diego Maradona's “Hand of God” moment when he handled the ball into the net, but it was not picked up by the match officials. The legendary Argentine also went on to score a spectacular solo goal to knock England out 2-1 in the quarter-final.

Like with France vs Spain, however, Argentina are now expected to beat England in this showdown. That's changed since the tournament started.

FAQ for Semi-Finals World Cup 2026

When Are the Semi-Finals World Cup Being Played?

The 2026 World Cup semi-finals are scheduled for Tuesday July 14 and Wednesday July 15, with both kick-offs at 8pm UK time.

Where Will You Be Able to Watch the 2026 World Cup Semi-Finals?

Just like all other matches before this stage, you will be able to watch the 2026 World Cup semi-finals on BBC and ITV.

Which Teams Reached Semi-Finals World Cup 2022?

At the last World Cup in Qatar, we saw France, Morocco, Argentina and Croatia in the semi-finals.

Can I Place a Bet on 2026 World Cup Semi-Finals Matches?

No, you cannot place a bet on the semi-final games since we do not know which teams have reached this stage at the time of writing.