​The 2026 World Cup has reached the quarterfinal stage, with the field narrowed from a record 48 teams to just eight contenders. The tournament has delivered drama and surprises, while still keeping some of the sport’s most storied names in the mix. Lionel Messi and Argentina remain on track to defend their 2022 title, a pursuit that would further solidify Messi’s standing as one of the greatest players in the history of the game. While the defending champions pursue another trophy, other teams are pushing to end long droughts and make their own lasting memories in this edition’s knockout rounds.
Spain, having overcome a hesitant start, has begun to show why they entered the tournament as a favorite. Their performance in recent matches reinforced expectations that they could claim their first men’s World Cup since 2010, a milestone that would be celebrated across the country and by their supporters worldwide. The early rounds produced a mix of exciting results and tough losses, but Spain has demonstrated the form and cohesion that could carry them through the tougher tests ahead.
The tournament’s opening matches also included some surprising outcomes for the host nations. All three host countries were eliminated in the round of 16, a development that underscored the unpredictable nature of a World Cup held on neutral soil. Canada’s campaign ended at the hands of Morocco, while Mexico’s bid was halted by England in a dramatic, heart-stopping match. The United States, meanwhile, were defeated by Belgium in a game that left fans both frustrated and hopeful about what the future might hold.
As the quarterfinals approach, the eight teams left in contention are as follows: Argentina, Belgium, England, Morocco, France, Spain, Norway, and Switzerland. The lineup features a blend of heavyweights and rising teams, setting the stage for a series of high-stakes matchups that will determine who advances to the semifinals and, ultimately, who lifts the trophy.
The quarterfinal schedule is as follows: France versus Morocco in Foxborough, Massachusetts, at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time on July 9, at Gillette Stadium. Spain faces Belgium on July 10 at 3:00 p.m. ET, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. England will meet Norway on July 11 at 5:00 p.m. ET, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Argentina will play Switzerland on July 11 at 9:00 p.m. ET, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Broadcasters will carry the games live on FOX, with live streaming options available through Fubo and the Fox One App. Spanish-language coverage will be provided by Telemundo and Peacock.
This snapshot of the quarterfinal field comes from ongoing coverage of the World Cup’s knockout rounds, and it highlights the matches that will determine which teams move one step closer to the title. For fans following the tournament’s progression, these matchups promise high-quality football, tactical intrigue, and the drama that accompanies the World Cup’s later stages.