World Cup action enters its decisive stage as France, Spain, England and Argentina prepare for two blockbuster semi-finals after a month of drama across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The tournament has produced 101 matches over 31 days, leaving only three games before a new world champion lifts the trophy. France will face Spain in one semi-final, while England will meet defending champions Argentina for the other place in Sunday’s final.

The tournament has also made history. For the first time at a FIFA World Cup, the world’s top four-ranked teams have all reached the semi-finals. Only twice before have four former world champions occupied all four semi-final places.

France have justified their status as tournament favourites with an unbeaten run built on defensive discipline and attacking quality. Didier Deschamps’ side now aims to reach a third consecutive World Cup final.

Captain Kylian Mbappe has led France’s attack with another outstanding tournament, while Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and winger Michael Olise have added pace and creativity. William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano and Jules Kounde have anchored the defence in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan, while Desire Doue and Rayan Cherki have strengthened the squad from the bench.

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Before the tournament, Deschamps sought to ease expectations.

“I have a lot of top-quality players, but for many of them this will be their first World Cup. I’m not going to say that France is stronger than everyone else, but Spain is the clear favourite,” he said.

Spain have impressed with disciplined possession football and tactical control under coach Luis de la Fuente. The team secured a composed 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals by combining patient build-up with quick transitions.

Teenager Lamine Yamal has continued to shine, while Rodri has controlled midfield. Mikel Oyarzabal leads Spain’s scoring chart, supported by Pedri, Dani Olmo and Nico Williams. Goalkeeper Unai Simon and left-back Marc Cucurella have also delivered consistent performances.

De la Fuente expects another closely contested match.

“We are both teams that would be considered a candidate for the final,” he said. “France has exceptional potential, and so do we.”

The first semi-final promises a tactical battle between France’s pace and physical strength and Spain’s technical quality and disciplined possession.

England have enjoyed an impressive tournament under Thomas Tuchel. The Three Lions defeated Norway 2-1 in the quarter-finals to book their place in the last four.

Despite the victory, Tuchel believes his side can improve.

“We found the way to get through to the last four, which is of course the most important thing,” he said.

Harry Kane has led England’s attack once again, while Jude Bellingham has dominated midfield with influential performances. Bukayo Saka has created constant problems for opposing defences, while Declan Rice and John Stones have provided stability throughout the tournament.

Argentina continue their title defence with composed displays built on defensive organisation and rapid counter-attacks. Lionel Scaloni’s side defeated Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals to keep their campaign on course.

At 39, Lionel Messi continues to inspire Argentina with goals, assists and exceptional vision. Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez have shared the scoring responsibilities, while Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez have controlled midfield with energy and composure.

Forward Jose Lopez acknowledged the historic rivalry with England but insisted his team remains focused on football.

“It’s a match that has a lot of history behind it, but we are professionals and we’re going to play it like every game until the last second,” he said.

England and Argentina share one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” goal and his brilliant solo strike in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final remain defining moments in their history.

The four strongest teams have earned their places through consistent performances, setting up two high-quality semi-finals and a fitting finale to one of the most competitive World Cups in recent history.