The 2026 World Cup has reached its final four, with France, Spain, Argentina and England all still standing as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
One of those nations will be crowned world champions in New York on Sunday, making this week arguably the most dramatic in international football for years.
BBC Sport gathered opinions from journalists and fans representing each of the four countries to gauge where the sentiment lies ahead of the semi-finals.
Spanish journalist Guillem Balague offered a balanced assessment, describing Spain as the best team, France as having the best player and most frightening attack, Argentina as doing more with less than anyone else, and England as having two world-class players in form.
Balague added that a Spain versus England final would be incredible and said: “This could be the summer,” expressing a genuine belief that England could finally end their long wait for a second world title.
Spain fan Michel was more direct, stating: “Spain will win the tournament, I have no doubt. No one is giving us a chance against France but we will control the match and beat them.”
BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty took a different view, arguing it is very hard to see past France’s sheer attacking brilliance, with Kylian Mbappe on a mission and Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Desire Doue providing formidable support.
McNulty predicted an England versus France final, suggesting Didier Deschamps would make his farewell with a World Cup win, though he acknowledged England could reach their first final since 1966 by beating Argentina.
England fan Paul remained optimistic, saying: “It’s coming home. Seriously. Why not? We have Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane and I think that will be enough,” while teammate-in-spirit Dean admitted concerns over England’s fitness following a difficult match against Norway.
French journalist Abdoul-Karim from TV5 Monde noted there is a lot of confidence in France, pointing out that Tuesday’s semi-final falls on Bastille Day, with some French cities already deciding to postpone fireworks displays until after the match.
Argentina journalist Santi Sciola was candid, saying: “I think France is the top team to win the title,” while acknowledging that Argentina could still win because they are a team that plays with heart.
Argentina fan Emma offered one of the more nuanced takes, predicting Argentina would beat England on penalties before losing to France in the final, warning that England have never faced Messi, “and he is our genius.”
France fan Gerard kept his assessment brief and bold, stating simply: “Of course we will win the World Cup. Have you not seen us? The best by a long way.”
With Bastille Day providing an extraordinary backdrop to the France versus Spain clash, and a potential Argentina versus England semi-final loaded with history, the stage is set for a truly memorable week of football.
