Teams Remaining in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16
This year’s World Cup began with a record 48 teams, but only one will claim the trophy on July 19. The tournament quickly moved from 48 teams to 32, then to 16, and now it is edging towards the quarterfinals.
Several well-known squads remain in contention, including recent champions aiming for another title. Below is an updated look at the bracket and the teams still fighting for the championship.
World Cup Bracket Update Through July 7
After the Round of 16, eight teams have advanced to the quarterfinals. The opening matches saw Canada and Paraguay eliminated, followed by Brazil and Mexico. Portugal exited after a loss to Spain, while the United States was knocked out by Belgium. Argentina pulled off a comeback win against Egypt, and Switzerland edged Colombia on penalties to wrap up the round.
Quarterfinal Teams Overview
- Morocco reached the quarterfinals after beating the Netherlands on penalties and defeating Canada 3-0. They are the first African team to reach consecutive quarterfinals and seek revenge against France, who eliminated them last year.
- France defeated Sweden 3-0, then narrowly beat Paraguay 1-0 thanks to a penalty by Kylian Mbappe. This marks their fourth straight quarterfinal appearance, and a win over Morocco would send them to their third consecutive semifinal.
- Norway made history by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time. After a tough Round of 32 win over Ivory Coast, Erling Haaland scored twice late to knock out Brazil. Norway faces England next.
- England aims for its second semifinal in three tournaments after wins over DR Congo and Mexico. They will meet Norway in Miami.
- Spain has not conceded a goal yet this tournament. They eliminated Portugal 1-0, sending Cristiano Ronaldo into retirement from the World Cup.
- Belgium recovered from a slow group stage to dominate the US 4-1 in the Round of 16. Their form is improving as the tournament progresses.
- Argentina survived a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt in a dramatic comeback. Lionel Messi scored a key equalizer late in the game.
- Switzerland advanced by winning a penalty shootout against Colombia. Considered underdogs, they will face Argentina next.
FIFA World Rankings of Remaining Teams
Top-ranked teams like Brazil, Netherlands, and Mexico have already been knocked out. The highest-ranked four teams remain in the competition, keeping their title hopes alive.
