New York, July 12: The FIFA World Cup 2026 has ended a 32-year trend after the world’s top four-ranked men’s national teams all secured places in the semi-finals, setting up what many fans are calling one of the strongest last-four line-ups in recent World Cup history.
According to the latest FIFA rankings, Argentina, Spain, France and England — currently ranked first, second, third and fourth respectively — have all advanced to the semi-finals. It is the first time since 1994 that the four highest-ranked teams in the world have simultaneously reached the final four of the tournament.The achievement underlines the consistency and quality of the four footballing powerhouses, all of whom entered the competition among the favourites. While World Cups are often known for producing surprise semi-finalists and giant-killing stories, the 2026 edition has instead seen the world’s elite live up to expectations. (Agencies)
