ARLINGTON, Texas — Concerns surrounded the World Cup’s expansion to 48 teams, but FIFA couldn’t have hoped for a more rewarding outcome.
Despite fears of diluted competition, the tournament delivered excitement with minimal exceptions. Instead of reconsidering the 32-team format, the largely drama-free final day of group stages might even support Gianni Infantino’s call to expand to 64 teams, as he discussed in an interview with the Swiss media outlet Bluewin.
Ultimately, the four teams reaching the semifinals are those that most neutral fans hoped to see. These matchups are set to draw massive audiences, beginning with a showdown between Spain and France deep in the heart of Texas on Tuesday, followed by England taking on Argentina on Wednesday in Atlanta.
From a purely sporting perspective, the clash between Spain and France is poised to be the match of the tournament. These teams have stood out at this World Cup. Spain has progressively found its rhythm, conceding just one goal and controlling play reminiscent of Vicente del Bosque’s team that secured the nation’s sole World Cup title in 2010. Meanwhile, France has displayed dominance, breezing past opponents with seemingly effortless ease.