Two World Cup semi-finals this week will decide who plays for the trophy, but the weather may have the final say in one of them. England face Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday evening, where scattered thunderstorms are forecast and FIFA’s lightning protocols could force a suspension. If electrical activity is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium, play must stop immediately, players and staff retreat to dressing rooms and fans are urged to seek shelter. To restart, a consecutive 30-minute period without a single strike is required, followed by a 15-minute warm-up. The threat is real: England’s last-16 match against Mexico in Mexico City already kicked off an hour late because of weather.
Before that, France and Spain renew one of the most tantalising international rivalries in Dallas on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake. France are aiming for a third successive final, while Spain could become only the fourth team to hold both world and European crowns simultaneously. All eyes will be on Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. Mbappe, who led the Golden Boot race with eight goals in six games and made 11 goal contributions, has carried France’s attack. “He’s carried this team through three successive World Cups where he has been the pivotal player,” said French football journalist Luke Entwistle. Mbappe scored 42 goals in 44 games for Real Madrid last season, topping La Liga and Champions League scoring, and overtook Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading goalscorer. “For me it’s just ambition and confidence,” Giroud told BBC Match of the Day. “He knows where he wants to go. He is a leader.” In contrast, teenager Yamal has had a quiet debut World Cup so far, but will seek to ignite on the biggest stage just as Mbappe did against Lionel Messi eight years ago.
“England v Argentina semi-final threatened by storms as France face Spain in Mbappe-Yamal showdown.”
Spain will need more from Yamal to reach another final. Meanwhile, England and Argentina will hope the Atlanta storms hold off — a delay could unsettle rhythm, and lightning protocols are unforgiving. The winners of these two semi-finals will meet in the final, with Mbappe chasing a second world title and Yamal aiming to repeat history.