Football fans are in for a spectacular finale FIFA World Cup 2026 after France, Spain, England and Argentina secured the four remaining places in the tournament. The semi-final program is not just promising successful battles but also marks a historic achievementas it is the first time in 36 years that all four semifinalists are former World Cup samples.
According to historical records, this is only the third time World Cup story that the semi-finals saw the participation of four nations who had all lifted the trophy previously. The first event occurred at 1970 FIFA World Cupwhen Brazil defeated Uruguay 3-1 to reach the final, while Italy beat West Germany 4-3 after extra time in what is widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in World Cup history.
The feat was not repeated until World Cup 1990 in Italy. On that occasion, Argentina eliminated the hosts, Italy, on penalties after a 1-1 draw, while West Germany also advanced by beating England on penalties after another 1-1 draw.
Now, after a 36-year wait, fans once again have the opportunity to witness an all-champion semi-final. The first semi-final will see France face Spain in a match successful showdown. The match also serves as a rematch of last season’s match thrilling UEFA Nations League semi-final, where Spain beat France 5–4 in a dramatic nine-goal match.
The other semi-final pits Argentina against England one of the most iconic rivalries in international football. The two nations met for the first time at World Cup in 1962 before producing several unforgettable encounters over the decades. The most famous remains that of the 1986 quarter-finals, when Diego Maradona scored both goals controversial objective of the “Hand of God”. and his extraordinary solo effort, widely considered one of the greatest goals in World Cup history.
Argentina and England also met in the round of 16 World Cup 1998where Argentina advanced on penalties after one intense battle. Their most recent World Cup The match dates back to 2002, when England won 1-0.
With four football giants still in contention, the World Cup 2026 the semi-finals are expected to conclude two high quality races where the smallest mistake could determine who earns a place in the final.
Sources: kenh14
