2026 World Cup Quarterfinals Set: England Survive Mexico, USA Eliminated by Belgium
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its quarterfinal stage, and what a tournament it has been so far. After 48 teams began the journey across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, only eight remain standing. From a stunning England victory at the Azteca to the USMNT’s heartbreaking exit in Seattle, the Round of 16 delivered drama, goals, and controversy in equal measure. Here is everything you need to know about the quarterfinal matchups and how the teams got there.
England 3-2 Mexico: The Game of the Tournament
In what is already being called the best match of the 2026 World Cup, a ten-man England side survived a red card and two Mexican penalties to defeat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 at the iconic Azteca Stadium. Jude Bellingham delivered a masterclass, scoring a brace that included a stunning long-range strike, while Harry Kane converted from the penalty spot to give England a crucial lead. Even a red card for defender Jarell Quansah could not stop the Three Lions, who showed tremendous resilience to hold off a spirited Mexican comeback led by Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. The victory sets up a mouthwatering quarterfinal clash with Norway in Miami on July 11.
USA 1-4 Belgium: USMNT’s Glass Ceiling Remains
For the United States, the Round of 16 brought familiar heartbreak. Despite a brilliant free-kick goal from Malik Tillman, the USMNT fell 4-1 to Belgium at Lumen Field in Seattle. Charles De Ketelaere scored a brace, while Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku added goals to send the Red Devils through. The match was not without controversy — earlier in the week, FIFA overturned Folarin Balogun’s suspension, but the USMNT could not capitalize. Christian Pulisic defended FIFA’s decision, but the result leaves the United States once again searching for that elusive first quarterfinal appearance on home soil.
Quarterfinal Matchups: The Road to the Final
With the Round of 16 complete, the four quarterfinal matchups are now confirmed. Here is how they shape up:
France vs Morocco — July 9
A rematch of the 2022 World Cup semifinal. France, fresh off a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay, will face a Morocco side that demolished Canada 3-0. Kylian Mbappe has now drawn level with Lionel Messi’s World Cup goal tally, and Les Bleus look formidable. Morocco, however, will carry the memory of that 2022 semifinal and look for revenge.
Spain vs Belgium — July 9/10
Spain edged past Portugal 1-0 in a tense Iberian derby to set up this clash with Belgium at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The Spaniards have faced only European opposition in the knockout stage so far and could conceivably reach the final without playing a non-UEFA team. Belgium will be full of confidence after dismantling the USMNT 4-1.
Argentina vs Switzerland — July 11, Kansas City
The reigning champions Argentina survived a scare against Egypt before advancing, and Lionel Messi admitted he cried after the victory. Now they face a Switzerland side that beat Colombia on penalties to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. The Swiss have never reached a World Cup semifinal — can they pull off the ultimate upset against Messi and company?
England vs Norway — July 11, Miami
The storyline writes itself. Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal machine, was born in England and currently stars for Manchester City in the Premier League. Now he faces the nation of his birth with a World Cup semifinal berth on the line. Norway stunned Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16, proving they are no flash in the pan. England, playing their second consecutive knockout match away from home, will need every ounce of Bellingham’s brilliance to contain the most feared striker in world football.
Key Storylines to Watch
Can England cope without Quansah? The red card for Jarell Quansah means England will be without one of their defensive pillars for the quarterfinal. Gareth Southgate’s tactical adjustments will be tested against a Norway side that has scored freely.
Messi’s final dance? At 39, Lionel Messi has already stated this will be his final World Cup. The emotions are running high — he was seen in tears after Argentina’s Round of 16 win. Can he lead Argentina to back-to-back titles?
The Haaland factor. The Manchester City striker has been on fire throughout the tournament. England fans know him better than most — and that makes him even more dangerous. If Norway can supply him, England’s defence will be in for a long night in the Miami heat.
Morocco’s revenge mission. Having been denied a historic final appearance by France in 2022, Morocco will be out for blood. They look even stronger than they did four years ago, and France’s narrow 1-0 win over Paraguay suggests they are vulnerable.
World Cup 2026 Betting Preview and Predictions
With the knockout stage heating up, there are tremendous betting opportunities across all four quarterfinal matchups. Here are our expert recommendations:
France vs Morocco: France are favorites but Morocco’s defensive discipline makes the under an intriguing option. Tip: Under 2.5 goals at strong value.
Spain vs Belgium: Two technically gifted sides. Belgium’s physical edge could be decisive. Tip: Belgium to advance (+150) — excellent value against an inexperienced Spanish side in big moments.
Argentina vs Switzerland: Switzerland are organized and dangerous on the counter. With Messi carrying a knock, this could go to extra time. Tip: Draw after 90 minutes (+260).
England vs Norway: Haaland vs Bellingham — the two Premier League superstars go head to head. England’s depth gives them the edge, but Norway’s pace on the break is a genuine threat. Tip: Both teams to score (-120).
The semifinals are scheduled for July 14 and 15, with the World Cup final taking place on July 19. With only three matches separating these eight teams from glory, every moment matters.
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