Quarterfinal Matchups Reveal Europe Dominance and New Contenders

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches its decisive phase, the quarter‑final roster showcases a clear European advantage – six of the eight teams are from the continent. France, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England and Switzerland represent the Old Continent, while Morocco and Argentina bring a South‑American flair.

The draw pairs traditional powerhouses against both familiar rivals and first‑time semifinal hopefuls. France will test Morocco’s recent rise on July 10, while Spain meets Belgium on July 11. England faces Norway on July 12, and Argentina goes head‑to‑head with Switzerland later that day.

Four of the squads have previously won the tournament: France (1998, 2018), Spain (2010), England (1966) and Argentina (1978, 1986, 2022). The remaining four – Morocco, Switzerland, Norway and Belgium – are still awaiting their inaugural trophy.

Morocco’s standout moment was a semifinal run in Qatar 2022. Switzerland has never advanced past the quarter‑finals despite four appearances, and Belgium’s finest accomplishment was a bronze medal in 2018. Norway’s best performance arrives with this edition.

The outcomes of these four games will determine the semifinal line‑up and set the stage for a possible clash between seasoned champions and a nation on the brink of its first World Cup triumph.