Published: July 11, 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup enters another thrilling day with England preparing for a blockbuster quarter-final against Norway, while Spain continue celebrating their dramatic victory over Belgium that booked a mouthwatering semi-final clash with France.
With only eight teams remaining, every match now carries enormous significance as the race to lift football’s biggest trophy reaches its decisive stage.
England Ready for Crucial Norway Test
England return to action knowing victory over Norway would move them within one match of another World Cup final.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have grown stronger throughout the tournament and now face one of their biggest challenges against a Norwegian team inspired by Erling Haaland.
Preparations have been mixed for the Three Lions.
Defender Jarell Quansah will miss the match through suspension, while fitness concerns surrounded several key players earlier in the week.
However, England received encouraging news after Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James all returned to training, increasing optimism that they could be available for the quarter-final.
Should England progress, they will face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals.
Spain Book Heavyweight Clash with France
Friday night’s action delivered another dramatic finish as Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
Once again, Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s unlikely hero.
The Arsenal midfielder scored his second consecutive knockout winner after reacting quickest to a rebound in the closing minutes, securing another memorable victory for Luis de la Fuente’s side.
Spain will now meet France in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
With both nations among the pre-tournament favorites, the semi-final has all the ingredients of a World Cup classic.
Belgium Left Heartbroken
Belgium’s impressive tournament came to an agonizing end after a costly late mistake.
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois, failed to hold Pau Cubarsí’s long-range effort, allowing Merino to score the decisive winner.
The Red Devils had responded brilliantly after falling behind earlier in the match, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring Belgium’s equalizer before Spain regained control late on.
Despite the defeat, Belgium leave the tournament having exceeded many expectations.
England Receive Timely Fitness Boost
England’s preparations have improved significantly over the last 24 hours.
Declan Rice recovered from illness to resume training, while Marc Guehi and Reece James also returned after minor fitness concerns.
Thomas Tuchel therefore has several important decisions to make ahead of kickoff.
John Stones and Dan Burn remain alternative options in central defense, while England continue to possess impressive depth across the squad.
Norway, meanwhile, enter the match with a fully fit group of players, giving manager Ståle Solbakken plenty of tactical flexibility.
Argentina and Switzerland Await
The second quarter-final scheduled this weekend will see defending champions Argentina face Switzerland.
Lionel Messi’s side have survived two difficult knockout matches and continue chasing another World Cup title, while Switzerland have quietly become one of the tournament’s biggest surprise packages.
The winner will meet either England or Norway in the semi-finals.
Saturday’s Biggest Talking Points
As the World Cup enters its final stages, several storylines continue dominating headlines:
- England prepare for a huge quarter-final against Norway.
- Spain advance to face France after eliminating Belgium.
- Mikel Merino continues his remarkable run of decisive knockout goals.
- England receive positive injury news before kickoff.
- Argentina and Switzerland battle for the final semi-final place.
Key Takeaways
- England face Norway for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
- Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 and will now meet France.
- Mikel Merino scored another dramatic late winner.
- Declan Rice, Marc Guehi and Reece James returned to England training.
- Argentina and Switzerland will contest the final quarter-final.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to deliver drama with every knockout match. Spain have already secured their place in the semi-finals after another late victory, while England now have the opportunity to join them if they can overcome a talented Norway side. With France already waiting, Argentina still alive, and Switzerland hoping to continue their impressive run, the battle to lift the World Cup trophy has never looked more competitive. Saturday promises another unforgettable chapter in what has already been an outstanding tournament.
