World Cup 2026 quarter-finals: England, France, Spain and Argentina's path to the semi-finals

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered its quarter-final stage, with eight nations remaining in contention for the trophy ahead of the final on 19 July.

England face Norway on Saturday in Miami, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading the charge as Gareth Southgate’s side look to reach the semi-finals. The match represents one of the most anticipated fixtures of the round for English supporters, who have watched their team progress steadily through the tournament.

France and Morocco renew their rivalry on Thursday night in a repeat of the 2022 semi-final, a tie that ended in heartbreak for the Atlas Lions in Qatar. Morocco will be eager to go one step further this time around, while France carry the weight of expectation as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

Spain and Belgium meet on Friday in what promises to be a tactically compelling encounter between two sides with contrasting styles. Spain have been among the more fluid attacking teams of the tournament, while Belgium’s experienced core will be determined to make their mark on what could be a final World Cup campaign for several key players.

Sunday’s quarter-final sees Lionel Messi’s Argentina take on Switzerland in Kansas City. The defending champions have navigated the knockout rounds with a mix of individual brilliance and collective resilience, and Messi will be hoping to add another chapter to his World Cup legacy before the tournament reaches its climax.