The World Cup reaches its penultimate stage this week as four of international football's biggest nations battle for a place in the final. France, Spain, England and Argentina have all navigated a challenging route through the knockout rounds to reach the semifinals, setting up two blockbuster encounters featuring world-class talent, historic rivalries and contrasting styles of play.

With a place in the World Cup final at stake, every moment will be crucial as the remaining teams look to take one step closer to lifting football's biggest prize. This action presents plenty of betting opportunities at Lucky Fish with enticing odds on pre-match and live-in-play betting.

France vs Spain

Odds: 27/20 France | Draw 2/1 | Spain 22/10

Date: Tuesday, 14 July 2026

Kick-off: 21:00

Prediction: France to win at 27/20

France and Spain meet in the first World Cup semifinal in a clash between two of the tournament's most impressive teams. France have looked dominant throughout their run to the last four, defeating Sweden in the Round of 32, Paraguay in the Round of 16, and Morocco 2–0 in the quarterfinals.

Didier Deschamps' side have combined defensive solidity with a devastating attack led by Kylian Mbappé, while Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise have provided pace and creativity in the final third.

Spain have been equally convincing, eliminating Austria, Portugal and Belgium on their way to the semifinals. Luis de la Fuente's side have controlled matches through their trademark possession-based style, with Rodri and Pedri dictating play in midfield and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal continuing to shine on the wing.

Both teams are expected to have near full-strength squads available. France have been boosted by the return of Aurélien Tchouaméni after recovering from injury, while Mbappé is fit despite recent fitness concerns.

Spain also have no major injury worries and are likely to name an unchanged lineup following their victory over Belgium. The tactical battle between France's pace on the counterattack and Spain's patient build-up play promises to be one of the defining contests of the tournament. France's ability to exploit space in transition could ultimately prove decisive; however, if Spain succeeds in dominating ball possession and enjoying their style of play, they may book their spot in the final.

Other markets to explore:

France/Draw & Under 3.5 at 17/20
Over 9.5 Corners at 17/20
Over 2.5 & Yes at 12/10

England vs Argentina

Odds: 33/20 England | Draw 7/4 | Argentina 39/20

Date: Wednesday, 15 July 2026

Kick-off: 21:00

Prediction: Draw at 39/20

The second semifinal sees England renew one of football's greatest rivalries against defending champions Argentina. England have gathered momentum throughout the competition, overcoming Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, Belgium in the Round of 16 and Norway in the quarterfinals to reach the last four.

Jude Bellingham has been central to England's success with commanding midfield performances, while Harry Kane has continued to provide leadership and crucial goals.

Argentina have taken a more demanding route, defeating Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland to keep their title defence alive. Lionel Messi has once again been the inspiration for his country, supported by the goals of Lautaro Martínez and the creativity of Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández.

Both nations are expected to have their strongest squads available, with no significant injury concerns heading into the match. England will look to control possession through Bellingham and Declan Rice while limiting Messi's influence, but stopping the Argentine captain over 90 minutes remains one of the game's toughest challenges.

Argentina's experience in high-pressure knockout matches could give them a slight advantage, and another decisive moment from Messi may be enough to secure a hard-fought victory and a place in a second consecutive World Cup final.

Other markets to explore:

BTTS: Yes at 9/10
England to win at 33/20
Argentina to win at 39/20

Bet on both matches at 5/1. Get back R500 for a R100 stake.

Click here to place the bet or use booking code:510520

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