And breathe. England survived an instant classic, defeated Norway 2-1, and are through to the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. With Norway eliminated and out of the picture, the Three Lions will prepare to face the winner between Argentina and Switzerland next in the 2026 World Cup.
England passed yet another hard test at the 2026 World Cup and have reason to dream. The Three Lions showed their teeth and claws in yet another rough environment. After taking Mexico out at home, playing at altitude in Mexico City, England have now weathered the unbearable heat in Miami to knock Norway out of the tournament.
The swampy terrain in Miami Gardens was no place for a dragon ship and Norway’s Viking Row celebration. Instead, the Three Lions prevailed, as England celebrated to the tune of “Wonderwall” by Oasis.
Thomas Tuchel’s side can’t afford to lose sight of its upcoming battle, which will be against Argentina or Switzerland in Kansas City. The Three Lions will lick their wounds for a moment before getting back to work. England can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Their road to the World Cup final is clear, though far from simple, and possibly lined with eternal rivals.
Harry Kane #9 of England
England’s path to World Cup final
Next, England will take on Argentina or Switzerland in the semifinals, which will be played at Kansas City Stadium on July 15. If the Three Lions advance to the 2026 World Cup final, they will face either Spain or France on July 19 at New York-New Jersey Stadium.
It should go without saying, but the Three Lions could face some all-time foes en route to making history. Although they created soccer, England have only won one World Cup. Their road ahead at the 2026 World Cup has fans in Albion excited, but it remains a perilous one for the Three Lions.
| Round | Possible opponent |
| Semifinals | Argentina or Switzerland |
| Final | France or Spain |
England’s dream is alive and well
England delivered a statement victory with their triumph over Norway in the quarterfinals. For the first time since the 2018 World Cup, England are among the best four teams in the world. This time, however, they hope for better luck in the semis. Maybe, it’s finally coming home.
If fans needed one reason to believe this year could be different, this performance did just that. Six decades later, exactly 60 years after their first and only World Cup title, England are only two wins away. It’s been far too long, but maybe the wait will finally pay off.
