France became the first team to book a semi-final berth by defeating Morocco 2-0 at Boston Stadium. In what was a rematch of the 2022 semi-final, the French side showed their tournament experience and clinical edge.
Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele tore through the Moroccan defense, ensuring the Atlas Lions’ historic international run came to an end in normal time without the need for extra periods.
Spain joined them in the next round after edging past Belgium 2-1 in a tactical midfield battle at Los Angeles Stadium.
The Spanish side controlled the tempo and possession throughout the match, breaking the deadlock to lead. Although Belgium’s direct counter-attacking style allowed them to pull one back and threaten an equalizer late in the game, the former champions held their nerve defensively to seal the victory.
England completed the trio by grinding out a tough 2-1 victory over Norway after extra time at Miami Stadium. Norway took a shocking lead in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjelderup beat a sprawling Jordan Pickford.
However, Jude Bellingham rescued the Three Lions, scoring an equalizer in the 1st half stoppage time before blasting home the decisive match-winner 3 minutes into extra time. Norway’s hopes were completely shattered in the 2nd half when a potential go-ahead goal was overturned by VAR for an Erling Haaland foul, allowing England to march into the semi-finals for the 2nd time in the last 3 editions.
Last but not the least, reigning champions Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-2 after extra time.
