The FIFA World Cup 2026 has reached its quarterfinal stage, with eight nations vying for the prestigious trophy. As the tournament progresses, teams like Argentina and France are favorites, while underdogs such as Switzerland and Morocco aim to make history. The quarterfinal matches will take place in New York/New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
Switzerland's Journey to the Quarterfinals
Switzerland has made it to the quarterfinals for the first time in 72 years. Their journey included facing co-hosts Canada, Bosnia, and Qatar in the group stage, where they narrowly secured their spot at the top. In the Round of 32, they eliminated Colombia on penalties after a tense match.
Despite their success, their chances against Argentina appear slim, especially with the potential loss of breakout star Johan Manzambi due to injury. Even if they pull off an upset, a semifinal against England or Norway would pose a significant challenge.
Morocco's Aspirations in the Quarterfinals
Morocco's performance has been a rollercoaster ride. After a promising start against Brazil, they struggled to maintain momentum but bounced back in the last 16 against Canada, winning decisively. Their quarterfinal match against France will be a test of their mettle.
The absence of leading scorer Ismael Saibari due to injury adds to their challenges. However, a victory over France could propel them into the final, making history as the first African nation to reach that stage.
Belgium's Surprising Resurgence
Belgium has shown signs of improvement after a shaky start in the tournament. Under coach Rudi Garcia, they displayed better form in their recent match against the USA. Their ability to adapt, including leaving star player Kevin De Bruyne out, has made them a formidable opponent.
Despite a strong finish against New Zealand, Belgium faces a daunting challenge against unbeaten Spain. If they can overcome this hurdle, they may find themselves in a semifinal clash with France.
Key Takeaways from the Quarterfinals
- Switzerland: Aiming for a historic win but facing tough odds.
- Morocco: Must overcome injuries to key players to succeed.
- Belgium: Resilience shown but must maintain momentum against Spain.
- Argentina and France: Top contenders with rich football history.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
