The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals are ready to begin with eight teams still in contention for football’s biggest prize after an action-packed Round of 16. The last-eight lineup features a mix of traditional powerhouses and surprise contenders, promising four exciting clashes as the race for the title intensifies.
FIFA World Cup Quarterfinal fixtures and schedule
The quarterfinals will get underway on July 9, with France taking on Morocco. France have impressed throughout the knockout stages with their attacking quality, while Morocco continue their remarkable campaign after eliminating Canada in the Round of 16.
Action shifts to July 10 when Spain face Belgium in what is expected to be one of the standout matches of the tournament. Spain advanced after edging Portugal in a tightly contested encounter, while Belgium produced an emphatic display to defeat the United States and book their place in the final eight.
The remaining two quarterfinals are scheduled for July 11. Norway will meet England after both teams pulled off memorable Round of 16 victories. Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil, while England overcame a determined Mexico side to continue their World Cup journey.
The final quarterfinal will see defending champions Argentina take on Switzerland. Argentina booked their place after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, while Switzerland needed a penalty shootout to edge past Colombia following a goalless draw.
What will be the semifinal pathway?
The winners of France versus Morocco and Spain versus Belgium will meet in the first semifinal, while the victors of Norway versus England and Argentina versus Switzerland will contest the second semifinal. The semifinal winners will advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, while the losing teams will play in the third-place playoff.
The FIFA World Cup quarter-finals are approaching ⚽️. The matchups include France vs. Morocco, Spain vs. Belgium, Norway vs. England, and Argentina vs. Switzerland. Each game promises intense competition 🏆. These matches are scheduled from July 9th to July 11th 🌍#Fıfaworldcup pic.twitter.com/JjCOD1kaq1
— Ravi Vishwakarma (@Rvish_06) July 8, 2026
With several former champions still alive alongside emerging challengers, the quarterfinal stage promises high-quality football, intense rivalries and plenty of drama. Every match now carries added significance, with just three victories separating the remaining teams from lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy on July 19.