Argentina and Norway will compete for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals on Friday, July 11, 2026, facing Switzerland and England respectively in their quarterfinal matchups.
Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, will play Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium at 9:00 p.m. ET. Messi has been a driving force for Argentina, scoring eight goals in the tournament so far and leading the race for the Golden Boot. In the round of 16, Argentina came back from a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2, with Messi scoring the equalizer and Enzo Fernández netting the winner. Argentina has scored 15 goals in total this tournament.
Switzerland advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Colombia on penalty kicks after a scoreless 120 minutes. They have a record of four wins and one draw in five matches, with Johan Manzambi contributing three goals. Switzerland's defense has been a key factor, allowing only three goals in five games, and goalkeeper Gregor Kobel has made 13 saves. Nico Elvedi has also been a significant contributor with numerous clearances.
Meanwhile, Norway will face England at Miami Stadium at 5:00 p.m. ET. Norway reached their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal by defeating Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16, a victory that followed their earlier wins against Ivory Coast, Iraq, and Senegal, with a loss to France in the group stage. Erling Haaland has scored seven goals in the tournament, trailing only Messi in the Golden Boot race.
England secured their quarterfinal berth by defeating Mexico 3-2 in the round of 16, preceded by a comeback win against DR Congo and group stage victories over Panama and Croatia, with a draw against Ghana. Harry Kane has scored six goals, and Jude Bellingham has added four for England. The quarterfinal will feature a key matchup between Haaland and England's central defenders, with Norway aiming to feed him quickly while England looks to deny early crosses and limit his opportunities.