​Yesterday Spain edged Belgium 2-1, joining France as one of the first two teams to reach the 2026 World Cup semifinals. Mikel Merino was again the hero, delivering a late winner in the 88th minute after also scoring a 91st-minute clincher against Portugal in the previous match. With Merino coming off the bench in both games, I quipped to a friend that he might never earn a starting spot again.
Today we have the last two quarterfinal matchups. Among the four teams in action, one will reach the World Cup final—but only one. The day begins with Norway taking on England in Miami. Erling Haaland and Norway have been among the tournament’s surprise stories, pulling off an upset against Brazil to arrive here. Haaland will be well acquainted with the English squad, given his long stint at Manchester City.
The late game features Argentina against Switzerland in Kansas City. It’s a tough break for Messi that he won’t get to play in Miami again this time, but he and Argentina clearly savored their 3-0 win over Algeria to start their campaign in Kansas City. Argentina has had to battle through a pair of tight passages, edging Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time and pulling off a dramatic late comeback from 0-2 down to beat Egypt 3-2. Can they sustain these dramatic performances, or will the heavyweights wear them down, potentially giving Switzerland a path to victory? We’ll find out tonight.
So, what storylines will unfold in today’s games? Stay tuned, share your thoughts, and enjoy the action.
Norway vs England
Location: Miami, Florida
Kick-off: 5:00 pm Eastern, 2:00 pm Pacific
TV and streaming: FOX, Telemundo, Peacock, FOX One, Fubo (free trial)
Argentina vs Switzerland
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Kick-off: 9:00 pm Eastern, 6:00 pm Pacific
TV and streaming: FOX, Telemundo, Peacock, FOX One, Fubo
This thread serves as your match thread. We don’t demand rigid rules, but please treat everyone with respect. Personal insults are off-limits, and heated debates are welcome. If you encounter anything out of line, report it and it will be addressed.