Kinshasa, July 12th, 2026 (CPA) . – Defending champions Argentina will face England on Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium in the second semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, according to the competition schedule consulted by CPA on Sunday.
Argentina defeat Switzerland 3-1 to complete the final four
Argentina secured the last remaining semi-final berth after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals on Sunday at Kansas City Stadium in the United States. Although the reigning world champions eventually advanced, they were made to work hard before overcoming a resilient Swiss side after extra time.
Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead in the 10th minute, allowing the South Americans to take a 1-0 advantage into halftime. Switzerland responded strongly in the second half, with Dan Ndoye equalizing in the 67th minute. Five minutes later, however, the Swiss were reduced to ten men after Breel Embolo was sent off following a second yellow card. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Switzerland resisted Argentine pressure throughout the remainder of normal time and the first period of extra time. Argentina finally broke through in the second half of extra time when Julián Álvarez scored in the 112th minute after following up a powerful Lionel Messi effort that had been parried by the Swiss goalkeeper. Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory with a third goal in the 120th minute, confirming Argentina’s qualification for the semi-finals.
Argentina maintain perfect record
Led by Captain Lionel Messi, Argentina has won all six of its matches in the tournament. In the group stage, the defending champions defeated Algeria (3-0), Austria (3-0) and Jordan (3-1) in Group J. In the knockout rounds, they edged Cape Verde (3-2) in the Round of 32, Egypt (3-2) in the Round of 16 and Switzerland (3-1 after extra time) in the quarter-finals.
Switzerland exit with honor
Switzerland’s campaign included a 1-1 draw against Qatar, victories over Bosnia and Herzegovina (4-1) and Canada (2-1) in Group B, before eliminating Algeria (2-0) and Colombia on penalties following a goalless draw in the knockout stage.
Their 3-1 defeat to Argentina marked their only loss of the tournament.
England qualify after Bellingham’s brace against Norway
Jude Bellingham scores twice against Norway
England booked its place in the semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Norway. Jude Bellingham scored both goals for the Three Lions, while Erling Haaland netted Norway’s consolation goal.
England will now face defending champions Argentina on Wednesday for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.