FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals set, eight teams remain in title race

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached the quarter-final stage after weeks of competition across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with eight teams remaining in contention for the title.

The expanded tournament, featuring 48 teams for the first time, began with 12 groups before introducing a Round of 32, making the path to the trophy longer than in previous editions.

Defending champions Argentina reached the last eight after defeating Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32 and staging a comeback from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16.

France advanced with a 1-0 victory over Paraguay, courtesy of a Kylian Mbappe penalty, while Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 after Mikel Merino scored a stoppage-time winner.

Belgium secured a 4-1 win over co-hosts the United States, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice. England overcame co-hosts Mexico 3-2 despite finishing the match with 10 men, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane among the scorers.

Norway produced one of the tournament's biggest upsets by defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals. Switzerland advanced after beating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.

Morocco booked their quarter-final berth with a 3-0 victory over Canada, led by a brace from Azzedine Ounahi.

The quarter-final fixtures in Indian Standard Time are:

France vs Morocco: July 10, 1.30 am

Spain vs Belgium: July 11, 12.30 am

Norway vs England: July 12, 2.30 am

Argentina vs Switzerland: July 12, 6.30 am

The winners will advance to the semi-finals, with the World Cup final scheduled for July 19.