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World Cup semi-finals feature four past champions for first time since 1990

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 12, 2026, 2:15 PM

Last updated Jul 12, 2026

World Cup semi-finals feature four past champions for first time since 1990

Summary

The 2026 World Cup semi-finals include four teams that have previously won the tournament: France, Spain, Argentina, and England. Switzerland's elimination by Argentina in the quarter-finals ensured that all remaining teams are former champions. This marks the first occurrence of such a scenario since 1990, when Germany, Argentina, England, and Italy reached the semi-finals. The last two instances of all champion teams in the final four occurred in 1970 and 1990. The matches feature France facing Spain and Argentina competing against England.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Four past world champions reach 2026 World Cup semi-finals.
•Argentina eliminated Switzerland to secure a champion-only final four.
•Last occurred in 1990 with Germany, Argentina, England, and Italy.
•Semi-final match-ups are France vs. Spain and Argentina vs. England.

Latest Updates

2:15 PMYahoo Sports — Four world champions in the World Cup semi-finals again after almost 40 years

What they're saying

"
Even before the semi-finals are played, the World Cup has already secured another historic milestone: the tournament will once again feature this stage with four national teams that have previously li...
— Yahoo Sports

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