The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals continued the tournament’s remarkable attendance trend, with stadiums operating at virtually full capacity. According to official FIFA figures, the two semifinal matches attracted a combined 138,415 spectators, representing an overall 99.6% occupancy rate.
The semifinal between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium drew 70,176 fans, filling 99.3% of the venue. Spain secured a 2-0 victory over Kylian Mbappé’s France to book its place in the final.
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated clash between Argentina and England at Atlanta Stadium was officially sold out. FIFA reported 68,239 spectators, with Lionel Messi’s Argentina coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 after late goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez overturned Harry Kane’s first-half opener.
Tournament attendance surpasses 6.6 million
Following the semifinals, cumulative attendance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup reached 6,665,825 spectators. FIFA said the tournament has recorded an overall 99.7% stadium occupancy rate, underscoring the sustained demand throughout the competition.
The figures are particularly notable given that the 2026 edition is the first World Cup to feature 48 national teams and an expanded match schedule.
Only two matches remain
The tournament now has just two games left to be played.
France and England will meet in the third-place playoff in Miami on July 18, offering fans one final opportunity to watch stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Jude Bellingham before the tournament concludes.
The World Cup final on July 19 will see Spain face Argentina, with Spain chasing its second world title and Argentina aiming to lift the trophy for a fourth time.
Beyond the sporting stakes, the final will also symbolize a passing of the torch between generations, as Lionel Messi prepares for what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance while Lamine Yamal looks to establish himself as football’s next global superstar.