FIFA World Cup 2026: semifinals set, grass memorabilia on sale and third‑place match scheduled

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals will feature the four highest‑ranked teams. France (ranked #1) faces Spain on 14 July at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, while Argentina (ranked #2) meets England (ranked #4) on 15 July at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The bracket was designed so that the top‑four sides occupy opposite halves, guaranteeing historically strong semifinals.

FIFA has begun selling authenticated fragments of the final‑match turf from MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Pieces are encased in acrylic, include a USB with exclusive content and are priced between $450 and $3,000. Only 2,026 units will be produced, matching the tournament year, and the initiative could generate more than $11 million in revenue.

The third‑place playoff is slated for Saturday 18 July at the Miami/Hard Rock Stadium (referred to as Miami Stadium for the tournament). The match will start at 5 p.m. local time and will involve the two semifinal losers – the defeated side from the France‑Spain fixture and the loser of the Argentina‑England tie. The game offers teams a chance to finish the tournament on the podium.