FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarterfinals: The Line-Up Takes Shape
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has reached its business end, and the quarterfinal picture is rapidly taking shape. With the Round of 16 delivering drama, upsets and a fond farewell to one of the game’s greats, three last-eight ties are already confirmed and the remainder will be settled as the final second-round matches are played. Here is where the tournament stands as the race for the trophy intensifies.
Confirmed Quarterfinals
| Quarterfinal | How they got here |
|---|---|
| England vs Norway | England edged Mexico 3-2; Norway stunned Brazil 2-1 |
| France vs Morocco | France beat Paraguay 1-0; Morocco saw off Canada 3-0 |
| Spain vs Belgium | Spain beat Portugal 1-0; Belgium thrashed the USA 4-1 |
How the Ties Were Set
England booked their place with a dramatic 3-2 win over co-hosts Mexico, and will face a Norway side riding the crest of a wave after Erling Haaland’s double knocked out five-time winners Brazil. France ground out a 1-0 win over a stubborn Paraguay and now meet Morocco — a repeat of their 2022 semifinal — after the Atlas Lions dispatched co-hosts Canada 3-0. Spain, still yet to concede a goal at the tournament, edged Portugal 1-0 in a match that marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career, and will take on a Belgium side that hit four past the United States.
Still to Be Decided
The final quarterfinal spots hinge on the remaining Round of 16 ties, with the likes of Argentina, Egypt, Colombia and Switzerland still battling for their places in the last eight. Those results will complete the bracket and set the stage for the concluding quarterfinal, scheduled alongside the confirmed ties between 9 and 11 July.
Key Talking Points
The confirmed line-up already promises fireworks: England versus Norway pits Harry Kane against Haaland, France versus Morocco renews a recent World Cup rivalry, and Spain versus Belgium is a heavyweight clash between the tournament’s meanest defence and a rejuvenated Red Devils attack. With the reigning champions Argentina still in the hunt on the other side of the draw, the road to the final is beautifully poised.
What’s Next
The quarterfinals get under way from 9 July across the host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Prime Hunt Daily will bring you full previews, match reports, stats and analysis from every tie as the FIFA World Cup 2026 reaches its climax.