The race for the World Cup title has narrowed to four teams, and the debate around who can actually win it is now sharper than ever. Spain, France, Argentina and England all have strong claims, but each path to the trophy looks different.
Guillem Balague, a Spanish journalist, said all four semi-finalists have what is needed to win the tournament. He singled out Spain as “the best team,” France for “the best player and the most frightening attack,” Argentina for “the best idea,” and England for “two world-class players on form.”
Why Each Semi-Finalist Believes It Can Go All The Way
| Team | Key Strength | Winning Route |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Best team, strong control | Must stop France’s counters and be more efficient |
| France | Best player and frightening attack | Can punish mistakes and break teams on the counter |
| Argentina | Best idea, doing more with less | Need to keep matches uneventful and wait for brilliance |
| England | Two world-class players on form | Still shaping an identity but carrying major individual quality |
For Spain, the challenge is clear: take the ball away from France, cut out the counters and become more clinical. Balague said that would require a “perfect game,” along with a very good or perfect Lamine Yamal.
Argentina’s route looks more controlled, but also more dangerous for them. Balague said they will try to make the match against England uneventful, then look for a moment of brilliance from Lionel Messi or Julian Alvarez, although he added that they have been “playing with fire.”
England, meanwhile, are still searching for a clearer identity, but Balague pointed to their personality and star quality as major reasons they remain in the frame. He said a Spain v England final would be “incredible,” and called it a win-win from his perspective.
Spanish Fans Back Their Team, But Respect The Threat
Supporters in the United States also saw Spain as serious contenders, though not without concern. Lionel said France would be difficult, but believes Spain can beat them thanks to strength in attack and defence, while noting that Pedri has not yet played at this top level.
Jack said Argentina look strong, but England cannot be ruled out because of Harry Kane, who he described as one of the most difficult strikers in the world. Michel was the most certain of the group, saying Spain will win the tournament and that the winners of the Spain v France match will go on to take the title.
The semi-final picture leaves no obvious favourite, only different kinds of confidence. Spain rely on structure, France on firepower, Argentina on efficiency and moments, and England on individual class while their identity keeps forming.