The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals are almost set. The tournament has moved into its most exciting phase after several dramatic Round of 16 matches. Every game now carries extra pressure because one mistake can end a team’s World Cup dream.

The expanded 48-team tournament has already produced surprises. Traditional football powers have struggled. New contenders have stepped forward. Fans have witnessed late goals, penalty drama, and memorable individual performances.

Here is everything you need to know about the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals Confirmed So Far

The first quarter-final will feature:

• Morocco vs France

The second confirmed matchup is:

• Norway vs England

The remaining quarter-final fixtures will be finalized after the last Round of 16 matches conclude. Portugal, Spain, Belgium, the United States, Argentina, Egypt, Switzerland, and Colombia are still competing for the remaining places.

Morocco Continue Their Remarkable Journey

Morocco have once again shown that their success at recent major tournaments was no accident. They produced a dominant display against Canada and secured a comfortable 3-0 victory.

Azzedine Ounahi scored twice before Soufiane Rahimi added a late goal to complete the win. Morocco looked organized in defense and dangerous on the counterattack. Their confidence continues to grow as they prepare to face one of Europe’s strongest sides.

France Find a Way Through

France had to work hard against Paraguay.

Paraguay defended with discipline for much of the match. The breakthrough finally came when Kylian Mbappé converted a second-half penalty. France protected the lead and advanced to the last eight with a narrow 1-0 victory.

The result keeps France firmly in the race for another World Cup title, although tougher challenges lie ahead.

Norway Produce One of the Biggest Upsets

One of the tournament’s biggest moments came when Norway eliminated Brazil.

Erling Haaland scored twice to inspire a dramatic 2-1 victory. Brazil created chances but failed to convert them consistently. Norway remained patient and punished every defensive mistake.

The victory sends Norway into its first-ever FIFA World Cup quarter-final. It also confirms that this tournament has become one of the most unpredictable in recent history.

England Survive a Five-Goal Thriller

England reached the quarter-finals after a tense 3-2 victory over Mexico. Jude Bellingham scored two goals in just 98 seconds during the first half. Harry Kane later converted a penalty to restore England’s advantage. England finished the match with 10 players after a red card but defended bravely to secure qualification. The win sets up an exciting quarter-final against Norway.

Remaining Round of 16 Matches

Several heavyweight teams are still fighting for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals. The remaining fixtures include:

• Portugal vs Spain
• Belgium vs United States
• Argentina vs Egypt
• Switzerland vs Colombia

These matches will determine the final four quarter-finalists and complete the knockout bracket.

Expanded Format 

The 2026 edition is the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams. The expanded format introduced an additional knockout round before the Round of 16.

Despite the larger field, the competition has remained highly competitive. Several established football nations have already exited, while emerging teams continue to challenge the traditional favorites. The new format has created more opportunities for surprise results without reducing the intensity of the knockout stage.

Players to Watch

Several stars have shaped the tournament so far.

• Kylian Mbappé continues to deliver when France needs him most.
• Erling Haaland has emerged as one of the competition’s most dangerous forwards after his match-winning performance against Brazil.
• Jude Bellingham has combined creativity, leadership, and clinical finishing for England.
• Soufiane Rahimi and Azzedine Ounahi have become key figures in Morocco’s impressive run.

Road to the World Cup Semi-Finals 

The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals will be played between July 9 and July 11. Every remaining team is now just two victories away from reaching the World Cup final.

The knockout stage has already delivered major surprises, unforgettable goals, and historic achievements. With the world’s biggest football prize within reach, the quarter-finals promise even greater drama as the race for the FIFA World Cup trophy enters its decisive stage.

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