FIFA World Cup 2026 is full of excitement in the quarterfinals. Eight big-time teams still have a chance to win and this is the moment for drama and tactical brilliance and moments which will go down in football history.
With the United States, Canada and Mexico out of the line-up, the co-hosts France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina and Switzerland are in the tournament, the world is now full of big names and big teams to watch out for in the great stadiums of America.
The star-studded France and Morocco match up on Thursday, July 9 will be the biggie at 4 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough (Boston area). France is one of the favourites, a team that has a squad with Kylian Mbappé leading the way. But don’t be surprised by Morocco—the 2022 breakout stars and the first African side to make the last eight in two World Cups.
The Atlas Lions have a solid defense and lightning-fast counters, and the Atlas Lions are capable of turning this into a fiery and cauldron-like clash (with their passionate fans in total support).
There are two mouth-watering ties on Saturday. England versus Norway at 5 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. England, with their dynamic Jude Bellingham and clinical Harry Kane, have shown real character, which is demonstrated in their gritty victory over co-host Mexico.
Norway also took advantage of Erling Haaland’s firepower to knock Brazil out in the Round of 16. This European battle is between England’s fluid possession game and Norway’s explosive, direct style; a real test of differing philosophies.
Argentina later that evening at 9 p.m. ET in Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium takes on Switzerland. The current champions, under the leadership of Lionel Messi, are going to have to defend their title. As difficult as it’s been, their talent and experience make them very dangerous.
Switzerland secured their place with a composed penalty-shootout win over Colombia and will have to maintain their discipline and take care of the ball properly at every corner. And so many people think “Could this be Messi’s last dance in the World Cup?”
Finally, Spain faces Belgium in the quarterfinals and they complete a bracket dominated by European teams but with Morocco’s African flair. These match-ups perfectly showcase the talent in the World Cup’s magic: elite talent against underdog spirit on the biggest stage of all.
As the tournament moves on, expect tactical masterclasses and individual heroes and raw national pride as the tournament takes hold. Goals and controversies and new legends are almost certain to be the result of the tournament. With the semifinals on the way, every act can determine a nation’s fate. The beautiful game is ready to deliver who will write the next chapter?
