World Cup 2026 quarterfinals set as legends bow out and favorites draw attention

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has moved into the quarter‑final stage, leaving eight teams – Argentina, France, Spain, England, Belgium, Morocco, Norway and Switzerland – to contest the title. A brief pause after the round of 16 gives squads a day to recover before the knockout matches resume, beginning with France versus Morocco.

The tournament also marks the end of an era for several high‑profile players. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Neymar (Brazil), Luka Modrić (Croatia), Manuel Neuer (Germany), Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico), Fernando Muslera (Uruguay) and other veterans announced their international retirements following their teams’ eliminations.

Analysts rank France, Spain and Argentina as the leading contenders, citing France’s unbeaten run, Spain’s solid defence and Lionel Messi’s scoring surge for Argentina. The odds reflect these strengths, while Belgium, Morocco, Norway and Switzerland are seen as capable spoilers.