World Cup Quarter-Finals: Can Anyone Stop France?

The World Cup is down to its final eight teams, and the question on many lips is whether anyone can stop France from claiming the trophy. Our panel shares their insights on the remaining contenders, key players, and potential outcomes.

Who Would You Trust to Score in the Final Minute?

Picture this: it’s 1-1 in the 90th minute of the final, and your star player has a chance. Who would you pick? Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, or Harry Kane?

Ed Aarons: I’d go with Messi. Even at 39, he’s shown flashes of brilliance, like his stunning goal against Egypt. His penalty record isn’t great, but when it counts, he delivers.Ella Brockway: On a cold, wet night, maybe Haaland. But this World Cup, Messi has been unstoppable, scoring in every game so far.Beau Dure: Haaland’s stats are incredible—he scores on nearly 39% of his shots, the best among players with at least 10 attempts. For spectacular goals, Messi shines, but if you want the most reliable finisher, Haaland is your man.Bryan Armen Graham: Right now, it’s Mbappé. Both he and Messi feel impossible to stop, but for a grueling six-week tournament, I’d back the younger star.Jeff Rueter: Argentina’s energy lifts the entire team, and Messi is still a major part of that magic.Leander Schaerlaeckens: Gotta be Messi. Even at his age, he knows how to decide matches with moments of brilliance.Jonathan Wilson: Depends on the chance type. For penalties or headers, not Messi. Otherwise, he plays at a different pace, often choosing the simplest path to success.

Teams We Wish Were Still Here

It’s tough seeing all three host nations out in the last 16, especially Japan, who showed early promise. Their thrilling opener against the Netherlands and brave fight against Brazil made them dark horses.

Ed Aarons: Japan could have gone further with a friendlier draw.

Ella Brockway: Colombia impressed in the group stage and had a favorable knockout path but fell short after missing some risks. The atmosphere they bring would be missed.

Beau Dure: Many African teams entertained, including Senegal and Egypt. The USA might have turned things around, and Mexico always promises excitement.

Bryan Armen Graham: I’d say the Netherlands. They didn’t find their rhythm and paid the price against Morocco. Their absence shrinks the tournament’s diversity and flair.

Jonathan Wilson: Losing any host nation dims the unique power of home support during these events.

Leander Schaerlaeckens: The Netherlands never fully convinced me. Their defense-heavy lineup and Koeman’s tactics seemed off. Their exit was inevitable after the Morocco tie.

Jonathan Wilson: Senegal’s collapse after leading Belgium was heartbreaking—they looked stronger overall.

Dark Horses Poised for a Shock?

Ed Aarons:Morocco have grown since their semi-final run in 2022 and could avenge their loss to France.

Ella Brockway:Switzerland have been solid defensively, with Gregor Kobel’s 16 saves standing out. Their challenge is scoring enough to upset favorites.

Beau Dure: With most top-ranked teams present, Norway and Switzerland stand out as underdogs. Belgium also deserves mention after their strong showing against the USA.

Bryan Armen Graham: Norway’s Erling Haaland is in phenomenal form, breaking scoring records and carrying hope for his team.

Jonathan Wilson: Morocco’s evolution from spoiler to controller makes them intriguing, especially with Ismael Saibari returning from injury.

Leander Schaerlaeckens: Norway's momentum makes them a genuine threat if they get past England and possibly face Argentina.

Jonathan Wilson: Switzerland somehow outperforms expectations, especially with their defense; they might challenge Argentina’s emotional highs.

Key Players Shaping the Tournament

Ed Aarons: Haaland’s confidence after defeating Brazil is captivating; England should watch closely.

Ella Brockway: Harry Kane has been vital for England, consistently delivering crucial goals and assists.

Beau Dure: Messi leads Argentina’s scoring, often shouldering the team alone.

Bryan Armen Graham: Messi remains the difference-maker, capable of turning a good team into champions.

Jonathan Wilson: Haaland’s comfort facing England’s defenders signals a tough road ahead for opponents.

Leander Schaerlaeckens: Michael Olise’s creativity stands out, especially as France faces varied opposition.

Jonathan Wilson: Messi can single-handedly win games; once he 'gets the face on,' he becomes untouchable.

Coaching Battles

Ed Aarons: Thomas Tuchel’s Champions League pedigree helped England survive tough moments; Didier Deschamps’ World Cup experience remains unmatched.

Ella Brockway: Deschamps’ trust in his attacking stars has transformed France into both favorites and entertainers.

Beau Dure: Rudi Garcia’s tactical work helped Belgium neutralize a confident US team.

Bryan Armen Graham: Luis de la Fuente’s Spain impress with unity and commitment, even if lacking a killer striker.

Jonathan Wilson: De la Fuente’s ability to secure buy-in from Spain’s squad is rare and valuable.

Leander Schaerlaeckens: Mohamed Ouahbi’s smart management has evolved Morocco’s squad remarkably in a short time.

Jonathan Wilson: Tuchel’s in-game adjustments contrast sharply with Gareth Southgate’s approach and have been decisive.

Predicted Semi-Finals

• France vs Spain
• England vs Argentina (or Norway, depending on predictions)

Who Will Win It All?

Ed Aarons: Spain over Argentina 2-1. Spain’s solid defense might be the only thing that can stop France’s attack in the semis, assuming Les Bleus get past Morocco. England or Norway could challenge Argentina, but Messi’s presence is always a wild card.

Ella Brockway: Same scoreline, Spain beating Argentina. Spain’s record of conceding less than one goal per match and keeping clean sheets stands out.

Beau Dure: France 3-2 Argentina. Despite challenges, the 2022 finalists show resilience. Mbappé’s support this time might be the difference.

Bryan Armen Graham: France and England to draw 2-2, England winning on penalties. Knockout football favors survival over style sometimes, and England’s depth could pay off.

Jonathan Wilson: Argentina 3-2 Spain. Argentina's strong home-like support and Messi’s wizardry make them tough to beat.

Leander Schaerlaeckens: France 3-1 Argentina. Assuming victories over Morocco and Spain, France’s firepower may prove too much for Argentina’s defense.

Jonathan Wilson: France 2-1 England. France’s attack will be tested by Spain but should prevail to face England, whose defense seems shakier than before.