World Cup 2026: Ranking the Quarterfinal Matches from Most to Least Exciting
The tournament has trimmed the field to just eight teams out of the original 48. The quarterfinals kick off on Thursday, following the first rest day since the World Cup began. Here's our take on how these four matchups rank based on the Round of 16 performances.
4. Argentina vs. Switzerland
Saturday | 9 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: Argentina (-285), Switzerland (+220)
Switzerland’s appearance in the quarterfinals marks their first since 1954, after a solid win over Colombia. Maybe we’re underrating the Swiss a bit here. On the other hand, an Argentina-Colombia clash would probably have drawn more interest, given their recent Copa América final and Colombia’s relative success against Argentina.
Argentina’s knockout games have been intense spectacles so far, earning them a reputation for delivering drama. Both sides bring plenty of experience, and it's hard to imagine Switzerland feeling intimidated facing the defending champions. Expect Switzerland to adopt a defensive stance, but trying to hold off Argentina in the closing stages might be a risky strategy.
3. Belgium vs. Spain
Friday | 3 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: Spain (-325), Belgium (+250)
Belgium’s strong performance against the United States raised questions: was it a fluke or a sign they've found their rhythm? Players like Kevin De Bruyne didn’t feature much recently, but substitutes Jeremy Doku and Romelu Lukaku made significant impacts off the bench. Still, the US defense left some gaps that helped Belgium.
Spain’s threat level has increased as the tournament progressed, although their goal against Portugal came late. Portugal’s defense was among the best, conceding only three goals in five matches. Belgium relies on goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, but Spain’s fluid passing might trouble Belgium’s midfield and defense, especially with Amadou Onana sidelined by a knee injury.
2. France vs. Morocco
Thursday | 4 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: France (-375), Morocco (+275)
This rematch of last World Cup’s semifinal doesn’t get the top spot despite the history. Morocco has upped its offensive game this year, scoring 10 goals in five matches compared to six in seven games in 2022. Their defense remains solid, with four clean sheets and no team scoring more than once until France’s 2-0 semifinal win last time.
France’s attack looks sharper than before. Kylian Mbappé trails only Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot, bolstered by teammates Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Bradley Barcola who keep defenses guessing. However, both Morocco and France show vulnerabilities defensively. France's midfield isn’t as dominant as previous years, relying heavily on their potent offense. Morocco presents France’s toughest challenge yet.
1. England vs. Norway
Saturday | 5 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: England (-225), Norway (+175)
England enters this quarterfinal with a real shot at winning the whole thing. Norway shares that confidence, largely thanks to Erling Haaland’s remarkable World Cup debut. Missing Norway’s final group stage game and several starters hasn’t slowed him; he’s scored seven goals while his teammates add four more.
Haaland is a formidable force on the international stage, averaging over a goal per game. England’s defenders know him well, especially since Haaland plays alongside John Stones and Marc Guehi at Manchester City. Ezri Konsa has faced him at Aston Villa too. Despite England moving from Mexico City's altitude to Miami's humidity after a tough win against Mexico, they showed resilience even when down a man.
Norway won’t hesitate to push England hard. Their performance against Brazil proved they can dominate tough opponents. This clash promises intensity and skill on both sides.
