The summer football season has reached its climax. The semi-finals and the third-place match of the 2026 World Cup have concluded, with results that have forced many experts to revise their predictions. In an opinion column for RBK-Ukraine, commentator Kirill Krutorogov summarizes the events that have shaken the football world.
Sensation in Paris: Spain Breaks France
Four teams that occupied the top four spots in the FIFA rankings paved the way to the semi-finals. This gave rise to unfounded rumors of a conspiracy, but reality turned out to be far more interesting. The pairings of France vs. Spain and England vs. Argentina promised a spectacle, but only one of the matches lived up to expectations in terms of unpredictability.
The French national team, which had demonstrated power throughout the tournament, was unprepared for the tactical decisions of the Spaniards on the day of their national holiday — Bastille Day. The key factor was the blocking of Michael Olise. Without the connection with him, Mbappé and Dembélé lost their effectiveness, while the defense of the 'Furia Roja' dealt with them excellently.
The decisive moment was a penalty won by Lamine Yamal. He feinted past Donatien in the penalty area and was brought down. Psychologically, the French could not withstand the blow. After Oyarzabal's conversion, it became clear that Deschamps' team had no chances. The second goal, scored 35 minutes before the end, finally settled the matter.
England vs. Argentina: Tuchel's Shame
The Argentine national team, despite criticism of FIFA for alleged artificial support, showed true championship football in the semi-final. The confrontation with England revealed tactical failures by German coach Thomas Tuchel.
The English, who were not underdogs, chose a tactic of openly holding a one-goal lead. Tuchel substituted attacking players for defensive ones, which led to a primitivization of the game. Even Donald Trump criticized the German for the irrational use of Harry Kane. The Football Association of England does not currently plan radical steps, but the defeat against Argentina was a heavy blow to the coach's reputation.
Third-Place Match: 10 Goals and Deschamps' Departure
The most goal-filled match of the tournament took place in the bronze medal game. England and France, having lost motivation after exiting the semi-finals, still gave the spectators a show. The first half ended with a score of 4:0 in favor of the English. At halftime, Deschamps brought on four players from the bench, and the French managed to score three goals, but ultimately lost 6:4.
This match dispelled rumors that the third-place match should be excluded from the program. However, for France, the tournament ended in failure: Deschamps is leaving the national team after 14 years at the helm. The era of Zinedine Zidane seems to be beginning. The English will continue working with Tuchel, but the question of why they did not play as freely against Argentina will remain open.
