The World Cup 2026 quarter-finals kick off on Friday, July 10, with Spain facing Belgium in Los Angeles. As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly anticipate who will emerge victorious and ultimately lift the trophy on July 19. Here’s a detailed preview of the upcoming matches, including team performances and key players.
Spain vs Belgium: Match Preview
Spain and Belgium are set to clash in what promises to be an exciting quarter-final match. Spain reached this stage after topping Group H despite an initial setback against Cape Verde. They rebounded impressively, defeating Saudi Arabia and Uruguay before a 3-0 victory against Austria in the round of 32. Spain's most notable player has been Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored four goals, but the standout has been Pau Cubarsi, whose defensive prowess has kept Spain's defense unbreached.
Belgium, on the other hand, had a rocky start in Group G, drawing their first two matches but finishing strong with a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. They staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal in the knockout round, scoring twice in the final minutes and securing a 125th-minute winner. Leandro Trossard has emerged as a key player for Belgium, contributing two goals and two assists in the tournament.
Norway vs England: Excitement Builds
Norway will face England in Miami on Saturday, July 11. Norway has been a surprising contender, securing their quarter-final spot with impressive victories over Iraq and Brazil. Erling Haaland, the Manchester City striker, has been phenomenal, netting seven goals in four matches, making him the player to watch.
England, known for their strong football tradition, will aim to capitalize on their experience and tactical advantage. Their journey to the quarter-finals has been marked by consistent performances, and they will be looking to continue their winning streak against the Norwegians.
Quarter-Final Schedule and Key Players
- Spain vs Belgium: Friday, July 10, 8 PM (Los Angeles)
- Norway vs England: Saturday, July 11, 10 PM (Miami)
- Argentina vs Switzerland: Sunday, July 12
- France vs Morocco: Result already confirmed, France advanced
The matches are crucial as teams vie for a place in the semi-finals. The Opta Supercomputer has predicted France as the tournament favorites, but with strong contenders like Spain and Belgium, the competition remains fierce. Fans can expect thrilling football filled with intense moments as teams battle for glory.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Sky Sports Football. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.