Argentina stands two wins away from history, but they will face an England team looking to bring the World Cup home for the first time in 60 years. This semifinal match, set for Wednesday, July 15, at 3 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, pits two football giants against each other with contrasting narratives and high stakes.
If Argentina wins, they and Lionel Messi would become the first repeat World Cup champions since Brazil won back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1962. England, meanwhile, is chasing its first final appearance since 1966, when they last lifted the trophy.
How both teams reached the semifinals
Argentina survived a scare against Switzerland, needing extra time before goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez sealed the win. England needed a similarly dramatic finish against Norway, with Jude Bellingham's brace — including a 93rd-minute winner — proving decisive.
Bellingham's heroics put him in the Golden Boot race with six goals, tied with countryman Harry Kane for fourth. He will now face the tournament's co-leader in Messi, who sits tied for first with eight goals.
Historical edge: England leads head-to-head
History actually favors England in this matchup, at least on paper. The Three Lions hold a 3-1-1 edge over Argentina in World Cup play and a 6-5-2 advantage in all-time friendlies, though it has been over two decades since England last beat them.
Where to watch England vs. Argentina live
For viewers in the United States, the match will be broadcast on FOX. Streaming options include fubo, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app or website. fubo is a recommended service, offering ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, and over 100 top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
In Namibia, fans can check local broadcasters or streaming platforms for coverage details, as international rights vary.
Match start time across U.S. time zones
- Eastern: 3 p.m. ET
- Central: 2 p.m. CT
- Mountain: 1 p.m. MT
- Pacific: 12 p.m. PT
2026 FIFA World Cup FAQs
When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 through July 19, 2026. It is the first World Cup hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Where is the 2026 World Cup being played?
Matches take place across 16 host cities in North America: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle in the U.S.; Toronto and Vancouver in Canada; and Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey in Mexico.
How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament features 48 teams, expanded from 32. The full list includes nations from all six FIFA confederations, including Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, Japan, Morocco, South Africa, and the United States, among others.
How many games are in the 2026 World Cup?
There are 104 matches, including the group stage, knockout rounds, and the final.
Can I stream the 2026 World Cup?
Yes. In the U.S., Fox Sports streams English-language coverage on FOX and FS1 via fubo. Telemundo offers Spanish-language coverage on Peacock and the Telemundo App. International streaming options vary by region.
What channel is the 2026 World Cup on?
In the U.S., English-language matches air on FOX and FS1. Spanish-language coverage is on Telemundo and Universo, available via DIRECTV and Peacock.
When is the 2026 World Cup final?
The final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026, at New York-New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium).
What time do World Cup games start?
Kickoff times vary by date, host city, and round. Fans should check the official match schedule for local time zone information.
This semifinal is more than a game: it is a clash of generations, styles, and ambitions. Whether you watch for Messi's legacy or England's quest for redemption, the match promises high drama.