World Cup 2026: England set up Argentina semi, Haaland’s father says Norway ‘robbed’, Senegal sack Thiaw – live

England’s quarter-final victory over Norway marked their fourth semi-final appearance in World Cup history, a milestone that underscores the rarity of their progress. The Three Lions edged past their opponents 2-1 after extra time, with Jordan Pickford surpassing Peter Shilton’s record for most World Cup appearances by an England goalkeeper. Pickford, who played his 18th match, dismissed personal accolades in favour of the collective goal: another step toward potential glory. His performance, however, was not without scrutiny. Norway’s opening goal arrived in the 32nd minute when Andreas Schjelderup’s curling cross-shot evaded Pickford’s outstretched fingers, leaving the Everton stopper exposed at his near post. The concession came despite a string of first-half saves, including a sharp low stop from Alexander Sørloth, and raised questions about England’s defensive organisation under pressure.

Senegal’s managerial upheaval and Haaland’s frustration

In a parallel narrative, Senegal parted ways with head coach Aliou Cissé, who was sacked following the team’s quarter-final exit. The decision came amid growing scrutiny over the team’s tournament trajectory, with reports suggesting a breakdown in dressing-room confidence after a 2-1 defeat to Morocco. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge Haaland, publicly criticised the officiating in Norway’s defeat, claiming his son’s side had been “robbed” by refereeing decisions. His comments echoed broader frustrations within the Norwegian camp, particularly over a first-half penalty appeal turned down after a challenge on Haaland by England’s Kyle Walker, which VAR did not overturn. The incident, captured in replays showing Walker’s foot making contact with the ball before clipping Haaland’s ankle, reignited debates about consistency in high-stakes matches.

The contrasting fortunes of England and Norway in the last eight highlighted the unpredictability of knockout football. England’s resilience, forged in tight contests, now sets up a semi-final clash with Argentina, a tie framed as a collision of contrasting styles. Argentina’s reliance on individual brilliance—epitomised by Lionel Messi—and England’s disciplined, team-oriented approach promise a clash of contrasting philosophies. The semi-final showdown follows a pattern set in the quarter-finals, where England’s tactical flexibility under Gareth Southgate has been tested by opponents who exploit spaces behind their high line, as Norway did with Schjelderup’s goal.

The semi-final landscape: discipline vs. chaos

While England and Argentina embody a blend of tactical structure and individual flair, the other semi-final pits Spain against France. The latter’s single-minded pursuit of victory contrasts with Spain’s methodical, if occasionally mechanical, progression. France’s intensity and Spain’s precision offer a starkly different spectacle to the semi-finals, where defensive frailties and late drama have already defined the tournament. The quarter-finals concluded with England’s extra-time triumph, a game where Norway took the lead through Andreas Schjelderup’s cross-shot. Pickford’s performance drew scrutiny over the goal conceded, but his focus remained unwavering. “The record is a great honour,” he said, “but we are here for a team game.” His words underscored England’s collective mindset as they advance toward a semi-final showdown.

The tournament’s narrative now pivots to these semi-finals, where the margins between triumph and heartbreak are razor-thin. England’s semi-final berth is a testament to their adaptability, but the road to the final demands another step into the unknown. Whether discipline or chaos prevails, the stage is set for a weekend of football that will shape the 2026 World Cup’s legacy. The clash with Argentina looms as a test of England’s ability to contain a side capable of overturning any deficit with moments of individual brilliance, while France’s relentless drive for victory suggests a final could be either a tactical chess match or a spectacle of attacking verve. Spain, meanwhile, will look to refine their approach after a disciplined quarter-final performance, where their possession-based control stifled a technically gifted opponent.

For England, the semi-final against Argentina represents more than just a step toward a potential final—it is a chance to silence critics who question their ability to handle the pressure of elite knockout football. The Three Lions have reached this stage with a blend of defensive solidity and attacking enterprise, but the acid test awaits against a side that thrives in chaos. As Pickford prepares to face Messi, the question is not just whether England can keep their shape, but whether they can impose their own rhythm on a tie that could define their tournament.