The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is narrowing, and the pressure is mounting. After another dramatic round of knockout matches, only 10 national teams remain in contention for soccer's biggest prize as of July 7. Six countries have already secured places in the quarterfinals, while four others are fighting for the final two spots today.
The tournament has already delivered shocking upsets, emotional exits, including Neymar from Brazil and Ronaldo from Portugal, and breakout performances like Lamine Yamal from Spain, leaving fans wondering who will be the last team standing on July 19.
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© Anadolu via Getty ImagesThe Six Teams Already Through to the Quarterfinals at the WC
These countries have officially punched their tickets to the last eight after winning their Round of 16 matches.
France
France continues to look every bit like a championship contender. A disciplined 1-0 win over Paraguay kept Les Bleus on course for another deep World Cup run. Their blend of experience, depth, and attacking quality makes them one of the favorites to lift the trophy.
Morocco
Morocco is proving its memorable 2022 World Cup run was no fluke. The Atlas Lions dominated Canada 3-0 to reach another quarterfinal, becoming one of the tournament's biggest success stories. They now face a massive showdown with France.
Norway
Norway has become the surprise package of the knockout stage. After eliminating Brazil in one of the tournament's biggest upsets, the Scandinavians suddenly look capable of making an unforgettable run toward the semifinals.
England
England survived a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico to keep its World Cup dream alive. With one of the tournament's deepest squads, the Three Lions remain firmly in the title conversation heading into the quarterfinals.
Spain
Spain continues to impress with its patient, possession-based style. A 1-0 victory over Portugal not only sent Spain through but also ended Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey.
Belgium
Belgium produced one of the Round of 16's most convincing performances, defeating co-host United States 4-1. The Red Devils now head into a blockbuster quarterfinal against Spain.
Four Teams Still Fighting to Stay Alive
© FIFA via Getty ImagesTwo rounds of 16 matches on July 7 will complete the quarterfinal field.
Argentina vs. Egypt
Lionel Messi and defending champion Argentina take on Mohamed Salah and Egypt in one of the most anticipated matches of the knockout stage. Only one global superstar will continue the journey toward the World Cup title.
Switzerland vs. Colombia
Switzerland and Colombia have quietly built impressive tournaments, and both have a golden opportunity to reach the quarterfinals. With evenly matched squads, this could be one of the day's most competitive games.
The Quarterfinal Matchups Taking Shape
© Getty ImagesThree quarterfinals are already confirmed:
- France vs. Morocco
- Spain vs. Belgium
- Norway vs. England
The final quarterfinal will feature the winner of Argentina vs. Egypt against the winner of Switzerland vs. Colombia. Those matches conclude the Round of 16 on Tuesday.
The Biggest Names Already Heading Home
The knockout stage has been brutal for several soccer giants.
© Getty ImagesAmong the biggest teams already eliminated are:
- Brazil
- Portugal
- United States
- Mexico
- Canada
- Paraguay
- Netherlands
- Germany
- Japan
- Ivory Coast
The exits of Brazil, Portugal, and the United States have completely reshaped the tournament, opening the door for surprise contenders like Norway and Morocco to dream even bigger.
Who Looks Like the Team to Beat?
France has quietly built momentum with another composed knockout victory, while Spain and Belgium are set for one of the toughest quarterfinal clashes imaginable. England continues to grind out results, and Morocco's confidence grows with every match.
© FIFA via Getty ImagesYet all eyes remain on Argentina. If Messi guides the defending champions past Egypt, another World Cup title suddenly feels within reach.
