The matchups for the quarterfinals of the 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup in North and Central America are set. Six European teams have advanced, showcasing their continued dominance, while defending champions Argentina (South America) and dark horse Morocco (Africa) carry the torch for their respective continents.
The round of 16 concluded on Tuesday with thrilling victories for Argentina over Egypt and Switzerland over Colombia.
Defending champions Argentina pulled off a stunning comeback, defeating Egypt 3-2 in their round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium. This victory keeps their hopes alive for back-to-back titles.
Argentina trailed 0-2 until the 79th minute but showed incredible resilience, scoring three goals in quick succession. Superstar Lionel Messi struggled early, missing a penalty, but redeemed himself with a goal and an assist in the dying moments.
The final round of 16 match between Switzerland and Colombia went to penalties after a goalless draw. Switzerland emerged victorious, winning the shootout 4-3 at BC Place in Vancouver.
This win marks Switzerland’s return to the quarterfinals for the first time since hosting the tournament in 1954, a 72-year wait. They now aim to surpass their previous best performances from 1934, 1938, and 1954.
The field has narrowed to eight teams vying for the World Cup trophy. The quarterfinal matchups are set: Morocco vs. France, Spain vs. Belgium, Norway vs. England, and Argentina vs. Switzerland. Europe dominates with six teams, while South America (Argentina) and Africa (Morocco) each have one representative.
Although this World Cup is the first to be hosted across three nations (U.S., Mexico, and Canada), all quarterfinal matches will take place in the U.S.
The action kicks off on July 10 at Boston Stadium with France facing Morocco. Spain and Belgium clash on July 11 at Los Angeles Stadium. July 12 sees Norway take on England at Miami Stadium, while Argentina battles Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium for semifinal berths.
Argentina’s quest for a second straight title faces a stern test against Switzerland, who are looking to make history. The Swiss must find a way to contain Messi, who continues to shatter World Cup records despite his age.
The England-Norway matchup is a showcase of world-class strikers, pitting Harry Kane against Erling Haaland. Both Haaland (7 goals) and Kane (6 goals) are in the running for the Golden Boot, chasing current leader Messi (8 goals) and France’s Kylian Mbappé (7 goals).
France and Morocco meet again four years after their semifinal clash in Qatar 2022, where France prevailed 2-0 en route to a runner-up finish.
European giants Belgium and Spain face off for the third time in World Cup history. Belgium edged Spain on penalties in the 1986 quarterfinals, while Spain claimed a 2-1 group stage victory in 1990.
Compared to the 2022 Qatar World Cup quarterfinalists (Netherlands, Croatia, England, France, Portugal, Argentina, Brazil, and Morocco), this year sees one additional European team in the mix. Argentina, France, Morocco, and England have reached consecutive quarterfinals.
Argentina and France, who delivered an unforgettable final in Qatar, could only meet again in the championship match of this tournament.