World Cup Quarter-Final Showdowns Set to Begin

The quarter-final line-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is complete, with eight teams remaining in the hunt for football's biggest prize as the tournament enters its decisive knockout phase.

Defending champions Argentina will be joined by former winners France, Spain and England, while Morocco, Belgium, Norway and Switzerland continue their quest for a historic first World Cup title.

The last-eight stage promises several high-profile clashes, including a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final between France and Morocco, and a mouth-watering encounter between Lionel Messi's Argentina and an in-form Switzerland.

Quarter-final fixtures (Bangladesh time)

Friday, July 10

France vs Morocco

Saturday, July 11

Spain vs Belgium

Sunday, July 12

Norway vs England
Argentina vs Switzerland
France seek another title, Morocco chase history

France will renew their rivalry with Morocco after defeating the Atlas Lions 2-0 in the 2022 World Cup semi-finals in Qatar.

Morocco have once again emerged as one of the tournament's biggest success stories, reaching the quarter-finals after eliminating the Netherlands on penalties before cruising to a 3-0 victory over co-host Canada.

France secured their place in the last eight with victories over Sweden and Paraguay and will once again look to Kylian Mbappé to lead their title charge.

Spain and Belgium revive World Cup rivalry

Spain and Belgium will meet for the third time in World Cup history.

Belgium eliminated Spain on penalties in the 1986 quarter-finals before Spain responded with a group-stage victory at the 1990 World Cup.

The reigning European champions booked their place in the quarter-finals by defeating Portugal and Austria, while Belgium advanced after dramatic wins over Senegal and co-host United States.

The winner will face either France or Morocco in the semi-finals.

Norway target another upset against England

Norway will face England in their first-ever World Cup meeting.

Led by Erling Haaland, Norway are enjoying their finest World Cup campaign, having stunned five-time champions Brazil before overcoming Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.

England, under manager Thomas Tuchel, reached the quarter-finals after defeating DR Congo and edging Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling knockout clash.

The match is expected to feature some of the tournament's biggest stars, including Haaland, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Martin Ødegaard.

Argentina and Switzerland meet again

Argentina will face Switzerland in their third World Cup encounter, having won both previous meetings, including a dramatic extra-time victory in the 2014 Round of 16.

Switzerland reached the quarter-finals after defeating Algeria before eliminating Colombia in a penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel playing a decisive role.

Argentina have survived two difficult knockout matches, fighting back to defeat Cape Verde after extra time before edging Egypt 3-2.

With Lionel Messi continuing to inspire the defending champions, Argentina will start as favourites, but Switzerland have already demonstrated their ability to challenge football's elite.

The winners will meet either Norway or England in the semi-finals.

Title race reaches decisive stage

With the elimination of co-hosts United States, Canada and Mexico, all remaining matches will now be played in the United States.

The quarter-finals feature six European teams, one South American side and one African representative, highlighting Europe's dominance while showcasing Morocco's remarkable rise on the world stage.

Former champions Argentina, France, Spain and England remain in pursuit of more World Cup glory, while Morocco, Belgium, Norway and Switzerland are aiming to capture the sport's biggest prize for the first time.