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Spain, France Reach Semis; FIFA Rejects VAR Complaint

7/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mikel Merino’s 88th-minute goal gave Spain a 1-0 win over Belgium and a semifinal versus France.
France beat Morocco 2-0 on goals by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, earning their third World Cup semifinal.
Thousands of Egyptian fans greeted the team at El-Alamein airport after a 3-2 loss to Argentina.
FIFA chief Pierluigi Collina said unfounded allegations against officials have no place after Egypt’s VAR complaint.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 France hosted the World Cup, the first time a host nation won the title, beating Brazil 3-0 in a final that featured 32 teams. The tournament has been held every four years since 1930 (except during World War II). France’s recent advance to a third semifinal echoes that historic triumph and highlights FIFA’s enduring competitive legacy.

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Story summary

Mikel Merino’s 88th-minute goal gave Spain a 1-0 win over Belgium and a semifinal versus France.
France beat Morocco 2-0 on goals by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, earning their third World Cup semifinal.
Thousands of Egyptian fans greeted the team at El-Alamein airport after a 3-2 loss to Argentina.
FIFA chief Pierluigi Collina said unfounded allegations against officials have no place after Egypt’s VAR complaint.

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