Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his illustrious international career as Argentina prepare for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. The clash is being billed as more than a football match, with Messi's experience, composure and leadership expected to test England's youthful squad and tactical discipline. Argentina will rely on their captain's ability to inspire in decisive moments, while England aim to end their long wait for World Cup glory. The semifinal promises an intense contest of skill, mentality and legacy, with a place in the World Cup final at stake. (PC: PA)

Spain showcased their trademark teamwork with a breathtaking passing move that ended in Pedro Porro's clinical finish during a 2-0 FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over France. The move exposed France's defensive weaknesses and underlined Spain's tactical superiority throughout the match. Mikel Oyarzabal had earlier given Spain the lead from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal won a foul. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, struggled to cope with Spain's disciplined defence and fluid attacking play. The victory sends Spain to their first World Cup final since 2010, where they will face the winner of England vs Argentina.

Spain produced a dominant display to defeat France 2-0 in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing their place in the final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal won a foul, before Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage with a well-worked second-half goal. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, struggled to break down Spain's disciplined defence despite creating a few late opportunities. The victory marks Spain's first World Cup final appearance since 2010. They will now face the winner of the England vs Argentina semifinal in the title clash, while France will play the third-place playoff. (PC: Reuters)

Spain took a 1-0 lead against France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final after Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot. The penalty was awarded when Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the box. Oyarzabal calmly beat goalkeeper Mike Maignan to give Spain the advantage. France created chances through Kylian Mbappe but could not score. Spain also looked dangerous in attack and controlled much of the early play. France suffered another setback when defender William Saliba picked up a back injury and was forced off. The winner of the match will advance to the World Cup final.

France and Spain meet in the first semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Dallas. France hope to reach their third straight World Cup final. Kylian Mbappe is two goals away from passing Lionel Messi in the all-time World Cup scoring list. He could also become the first player this century to score 10 goals in a single World Cup. Spain have left midfielder Pedri out of the starting lineup again. Young star Lamine Yamal could become the youngest player to score in a World Cup knockout match this century. The winners will face England or Argentina in the final.

Real Madrid are set to receive approximately $2.7 million (€2.3 million) through FIFA's Club Benefits Programme for releasing players to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Los Blancos had 15 players representing their national teams, though new signing Denzel Dumfries will not generate compensation as he was not registered when the tournament began. FIFA pays clubs at least $5,000 per player per day, with payouts depending on each player's tournament duration. Real Madrid will also receive around $222,000 (€195,000) for World Cup qualifiers. Despite the expanded tournament, the payout is lower than the $3.8 million earned after Qatar 2022 and remains modest compared to the club's lucrative summer commercial tours and Club World Cup revenues. (PC: Getty Images)

A growing number of UEFA member associations are reportedly exploring candidates to challenge FIFA president Gianni Infantino in November's presidential election, ending expectations of an uncontested third-term bid. According to talkSPORT, the move follows rising tensions between FIFA and UEFA, including controversy over the suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun's World Cup red card. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin is not expected to run, with Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Legia Warsaw owner Dariusz Mioduski among the names reportedly discussed. However, neither has confirmed interest. Infantino is still considered the favourite, backed by strong support across Africa, Asia and CONCACAF. Nominations close on November 18 in Rabat. (PC: AP)

American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina in Atlanta. The Moroccan-born official will take charge of his fourth match of the tournament. Lionel Messi has won every match played under Elfath, giving the referee an interesting record ahead of the semi-final. Elfath was also the first referee to oversee a match using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. During the 2026 World Cup, he has shown one red card and eight yellow cards. England and Argentina will compete for a place in the World Cup final on Wednesday. (PC: Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Argentina will wear their navy blue away kit against England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final after receiving FIFA approval. The team chose the kit for a psychological reason. Argentina wore the same colours during their famous 2-1 win over England in the 1986 World Cup, when Diego Maradona scored the "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century" goals. Officials hope the kit will remind players of that historic victory. England will wear their traditional white kit. Argentina have won all five matches in their home kit and also won their only match in the navy blue strip this tournament. (PC: AFP)

France will face Spain in the first semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday. France hope to reach a third straight World Cup final. Kylian Mbappe leads the French attack with eight goals in the tournament. Spain, the 2010 world champions, have impressed with strong defence and have conceded only one goal so far. Young star Lamine Yamal will play a key role for Spain after his match-winning display against Belgium. France coach Didier Deschamps called Spain the favourites. The winners will reach the final and move one step closer to lifting the World Cup trophy.