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Teams Still Competing in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16

The World Cup started with 48 teams, but only one will claim the trophy on July 19. The field quickly shrank from 48 to 32, then to 16, and now eight teams remain as the quarterfinals approach.

Several top-ranked and recent champion nations remain in contention, keeping hopes alive for their fans worldwide.

Round of 16 Recap

Sixteen teams entered the Round of 16. Canada and Paraguay were knocked out early, followed by Brazil and Mexico. Portugal fell to Spain, while Belgium eliminated the United States. Argentina managed a comeback win over Egypt, and Switzerland edged Colombia on penalties to complete the round.

Now, only eight teams have advanced to the quarterfinals.

Quarterfinal Matchups and Details

  • Morocco reached the quarterfinals for the second consecutive World Cup after defeating Canada 3-0, following a penalty shootout win over the Netherlands. They aim to get revenge on France, who ousted them in 2022.
  • France beat Sweden 3-0 and edged Paraguay 1-0 thanks to a Kylian Mbappe penalty. This marks their fourth straight quarterfinal appearance, and a win would secure a third consecutive semifinal berth.
  • Norway made its first-ever quarterfinal, upsetting Brazil with two late goals from Erling Haaland. Previously, they eliminated Ivory Coast in a tight Round of 32 match.
  • England is back in the quarterfinals for the third World Cup running, aiming for a second semifinal in three tournaments after wins against DR Congo and Mexico.
  • Spain has yet to concede a goal this tournament. Their 1-0 victory over Portugal ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey.
  • Belgium recovered from a shaky group stage to thrash the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16, showcasing their strength at a key moment.
  • Argentina survived a scare against Egypt, with Lionel Messi scoring a vital equalizer during a stunning comeback from a two-goal deficit.
  • Switzerland advanced by winning a penalty shootout against Colombia and will face Argentina next despite being considered underdogs.

FIFA Rankings of Remaining Teams

Brazil, the Netherlands, and Mexico ranked high but are already out, while the top four teams—France, Argentina, Spain, and England—remain in the hunt.

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