England and Argentina will renew one of football’s greatest rivalries in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after both sides survived dramatic quarter-final encounters that required extra time.
Reigning world champions Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to remain on course for a successful title defence.
Alexis Mac Allister gave La Albiceleste the lead before Dan Ndoye restored parity for Switzerland, sending the contest into extra time.
The Swiss were dealt a major setback when Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation.
With the numerical advantage, Argentina capitalised as Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez struck in the second half of extra time to seal victory and book a place in the last four.
Earlier, England also needed extra time to overcome Norway 2-1.
Jude Bellingham inspired the comeback, cancelling out Norway’s opener just before half-time to send both sides into the break level.
Norway thought they had regained the lead early in the second half, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review.
Bellingham then completed his brace in the third minute of extra time, sending the Three Lions into a mouthwatering semi-final showdown against Argentina.
The second semi-final will see 2018 world champions France take on Spain in another heavyweight European clash, with the winners advancing to the FIFA World Cup final.
With four football giants still in contention, the race for the biggest prize in world football promises even more drama and excitement.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
