Odds, Best Bets, Picks and Players to Watch in the World Cup Semifinals

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached the semifinal round, leaving four international powers competing for the biggest prize in soccer. France, Spain, England and defending champion Argentina are now just two victories away from lifting the World Cup trophy.

Both semifinal matchups feature elite attacking talent, experienced managers and teams capable of winning the tournament. Here is a betting preview of the final two rounds, including the latest odds, recommended wagers, players to watch and our pick to win the 2026 World Cup.

Odds are as of July 14, 2026, and are subject to change. Check your preferred sportsbook for updated lines before placing a wager. Odds below are from leadin sprotsbooks BookMaker.

2026 World Cup Semifinal Schedule and Betting Odds

France vs. Spain 

Tuesday, July 14 at 3 p.m. ET
Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas

• France: +139
• Spain: +241
• Draw: +214

England vs. Argentina

Wednesday, July 15 at 3 p.m. ET
Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia

• England: +171
• Argentina: +205
• Draw: +192

France vs. Spain Betting Preview and Best Bets

France enters the semifinals as the tournament favorite after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals. Les Bleus have combined defensive discipline with one of the most dangerous attacks in international soccer.

Kylian Mbappé has been at the center of France's success. His speed creates problems for every opponent, while Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé give France additional creativity and scoring ability around the penalty area.

Spain reached the semifinals with a 2-1 victory over Belgium. The Spanish defense had not conceded a goal during the tournament before Belgium finally broke through in the quarterfinals.

Spain will attempt to control possession and prevent France from attacking in transition. The biggest challenge will be avoiding turnovers that allow Mbappé and Dembélé to run at an unsettled defense.

France vs. Spain Betting Tips

• France to qualify: France has more ways to win and greater attacking depth if the match goes beyond 90 minutes.
• Under 2.5 goals: Spain's defensive organization could turn this into a cautious and tactical semifinal.
• Kylian Mbappé anytime goalscorer: Mbappé enters the match tied for the tournament lead with eight goals.

Semifinal pick: France 1, Spain 0

These sportsbooks have the most bets and best odds for the 2026 World Cup!

England vs. Argentina Betting Preview and Best Bets

England advanced by defeating Norway 2-1 and is attempting to reach its first World Cup Final since winning the tournament in 1966.

The Three Lions possess one of the deepest squads remaining. Jude Bellingham has provided goals, energy and creativity from midfield, while Harry Kane remains a major threat inside the penalty area.

Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in the quarterfinals. The defending champions have experienced several difficult knockout matches, but they continue to find ways to survive.

Lionel Messi remains Argentina's most influential player. Even when he does not score, his passing and ability to draw multiple defenders can create openings for the players around him.

This matchup also renews one of the World Cup's most historic rivalries. Argentina is trying to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups, while England is chasing only its second championship.

England vs. Argentina Betting Tips

• England to advance: England's youth, athleticism and midfield depth could become increasingly important late in the match.
• Both teams to score: Both sides have multiple players capable of producing a decisive attacking moment.
• Jude Bellingham anytime goalscorer: Bellingham's late runs into the penalty area make him a dangerous scoring option.

Semifinal pick: England 2, Argentina 1

Players to Watch in the World Cup Semifinals and Final

Kylian Mbappé, France

Mbappé enters the semifinals tied with Messi for the Golden Boot lead with eight goals. He can change a match instantly with his pace, finishing and ability to create chances from the left side of the attack. Mbappé is lsited as a massive favorite  to win the Golden Boot, currently listed at -125 at BetOnline.

Lionel Messi, Argentina

At 39 years old, Messi remains Argentina's creative leader and one of the tournament's top scorers. His ability to deliver on free kicks, penalties and passes around the penalty area keeps Argentina dangerous against any opponent. 

Jude Bellingham, England

Bellingham has been one of England's most important players, contributing at both ends of the field. His combination of strength, skill and late attacking runs makes him a candidate to influence both the semifinal and a potential final. Bellingham has 6 goals in this edition fo the World Cup, inkcuidg 4 in the last two matches.

Lamine Yamal, Spain

Yamal gives Spain an unpredictable attacking threat on the wing. His dribbling, vision and ability to beat defenders could be especially important if Spain struggles to break down France's organized defense.

Michael Olise, France

Olise has emerged as one of the tournament's most effective playmakers. His passing and delivery provide France with another way to create chances when opponents devote extra defenders to stopping Mbappé.

Harry Kane, England

Kane remains England's primary center-forward and penalty taker. His movement, finishing and ability to bring midfielders into the attack will be essential against Argentina's experienced defense.

Updated Odds to Win the 2026 World Cup

• France: +150
• Spain: +335
• England: +340
• Argentina: +400

France is the clear betting favorite entering the semifinals. They are a valid favorite, field the deppest squad with the best player in the tournament. Coach Didier Deschamps knows how to win tournaments, including the World Cup just 8 years ago. Spain and England are the next choices, with England playing at the top of their game. Argentina offers the largest potential return despite entering the round as the defending champion.

Best World Cup Futures Bet

Pick: France to win the 2026 World Cup at +150

France has been the most complete team remaining in the tournament. Les Bleus possess an organized defense, an experienced goalkeeper, outstanding midfield options and several attackers capable of deciding a match.

France also has valuable experience in the final rounds of major international tournaments. Mbappé and several other members of the squad understand the pressure that comes with playing for a World Cup championship.

Spain represents France's most difficult remaining matchup because of its possession and defensive structure. However, France has the speed and physical ability to attack Spain in ways that previous opponents could not.

Predicted 2026 World Cup Final

France vs. England

England should present a difficult challenge with its midfield depth and attacking talent, but France has the better combination of tournament experience, defensive consistency and game-changing speed.

Predicted final score: France 2, England 1

2026 World Cup champion pick: France

France has the deepest and most balanced team left in the competition. If its defense continues to limit quality scoring opportunities and Mbappé maintains his Golden Boot form, Les Bleus should finish the tournament by lifting another World Cup trophy.

Always shop for the best available odds and wager responsibly. Betting lines and player availability may change before kickoff.