World Cup 2026: Ranking the Quarterfinal Matches from Most to Least Exciting
The quarterfinals kick off Thursday after a break in the action since the tournament began. Here’s how we rank the four upcoming matchups based on what we’ve seen in the Round of 16.
4. Argentina vs. Switzerland
Saturday | 9 p.m. ET | TV: Fox
Odds: Argentina (-285), Switzerland (+220)
Switzerland reached the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954 after knocking out Colombia, which deserves respect. We might have placed an Argentina-Colombia rematch higher given their recent Copa América final clash and Colombia’s decent record against Argentina.
Argentina has delivered some of the most thrilling knockout matches so far. Their reputation for drama is well-earned. Both teams bring plenty of experience, but it’s tough to imagine Switzerland standing tall against the reigning champions. Expect the Swiss to defend deeply; trying to sneak away late points against Argentina seems risky.
3. Belgium vs. Spain
Friday | 3 p.m. ET | TV: Fox
Odds: Spain (-325), Belgium (+250)
Belgium’s dominant win over the United States raised eyebrows after a quiet tournament start. Did manager Rudi Costa’s squad find new energy late in their comeback versus Senegal? Key players like Kevin De Bruyne missed that US match, while Jeremy Doku and Romelu Lukaku came off the bench and looked dangerous. Still, how much credit belongs to Belgium versus weak US defense?
Spain has grown stronger as the event progresses, though their goal against Portugal came very late. Portugal’s defense has been solid, conceding just three goals in five games. Belgium relies on Thibaut Courtois in goal, but Spain’s sharp passing could trouble Belgium’s midfield and defense, especially with Amadou Onana out due to injury.
2. France vs. Morocco
Thursday | 4 p.m. ET | Fox
Odds: France (-375), Morocco (+275)
This quarterfinal is a semifinal rematch from 2022 but doesn’t claim the top spot here. Morocco has scored 10 goals in five games, showing more offensive firepower than four years ago when they failed to score in three matches. They kept four clean sheets this tournament until France’s 2-0 semifinal win last time.
France’s attack is more potent now too. Kylian Mbappé trails only Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot, aided by teammates like Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Bradley Barcola who keep defenses guessing. But defensively, both teams show vulnerabilities. France’s midfield isn’t as strong as before, relying on their forwards to carry them. Morocco could prove France’s toughest challenge yet.
1. England vs. Norway
Saturday | 5 p.m. ET | Fox
Odds: England (-225), Norway (+175)
England holds a real shot at winning the World Cup, and Norway feels the same. Erling Haaland’s World Cup debut has been outstanding. Despite missing Norway’s final group game alongside other starters, Haaland has netted seven goals. His teammates have combined for just four. Norway becomes unstoppable with him leading the line, scoring over a goal per international game.
England’s center backs know Haaland well—John Stones and Marc Guehi are his Manchester City teammates, and Ezri Konsa has faced him at Aston Villa. Yet, Haaland still managed to score past Gabriel Magalhães of Brazil.
England faces a climate shift moving from Mexico City’s altitude to Miami’s humidity. Their win over Mexico was exhausting, especially playing much of the second half a man down. Norway will not shy away from attacking. They were the better side against Brazil.
