Quarterfinal Lineup Set for 2026 World Cup as Eight Teams Advance
Eight nations have reached the quarterfinal stage of the 2026 World Cup, with matchups set that include traditional powers and surprise qualifiers.
Eight teams will compete in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup after the tournament’s group stage and round-of-16 matches concluded. Switzerland advanced by winning a penalty shootout against Colombia, marking its first quarterfinal appearance since 1954. Belgium progressed after a mixed group-stage performance and a narrow victory over Senegal. Norway returned to the knockout phase for the first time in 28 years, propelled by striker Erling Haaland, who has scored seven goals to date. Morocco defeated Canada in the round of 16 and will face France, the tournament’s top-seeded side. Argentina, the defending champion, overcame a late-stage deficit against an unnamed opponent, with Lionel Messi providing an assist and scoring the equaliser. England advanced after a win at Estadio Azteca and will meet Norway. Spain, unbeaten in the competition so far, will play Belgium after a late win over Portugal. France, unbeaten and favored to reach the final, will face Morocco.
"We knew the margin was slim, but the team showed character to turn the game around," said Lionel Messi after Argentina’s comeback victory.
"Our focus is on the next match; every opponent is strong at this stage," a spokesperson for the French Football Federation said.
The quarterfinal schedule sets up several high-profile encounters, including a clash between France and Morocco and a potential showdown between Spain and Belgium. The outcomes will determine the semifinal lineup for the tournament scheduled to conclude later this summer.