The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has reached the quarter-final stage with eight teams remaining. Switzerland secured the final quarter-final spot after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Colombia following a 0-0 draw in the Round of 16. With only 11 days left until the final, the tournament is heating up as the remaining contenders vie for glory.
Quarter-Final Lineup and Round of 16 Highlights
France were the first team to book their quarter-final place after a narrow 1-0 win over Paraguay. They will face Morocco, who impressed by defeating co-hosts Canada 3-0. Norway caused a major upset by eliminating Brazil with a stunning 2-1 victory, setting up a clash with England, who overcame another co-host, Mexico. Spain defeated Portugal to advance, with Cristiano Ronaldo bidding farewell to the World Cup, and will meet Belgium, who beat co-hosts USA 4-1. Defending champions Argentina, inspired by Lionel Messi, staged a dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Egypt and will now face Switzerland.
Opta Supercomputer Predictions: France Lead the Pack
According to The Analyst, Opta's supercomputer has updated its predictions for the World Cup winner based on the quarter-final matchups. France are the clear favourites, with a 44.34% chance of reaching their third consecutive final and a 27.32% probability of lifting the trophy for the third time. Their quarter-final against Morocco is a repeat of the 2022 semi-final, where France eliminated the Atlas Lions.
Spain, who entered the tournament as the top favourite, have dropped to second place after a draw with Cape Verde and stronger performances from other teams. Luis de la Fuente's side has a 36.35% chance of reaching their first final since 2010 and a 21.33% chance of winning their second world title. Argentina, the defending champions, have a 36.4% chance of reaching the final and a 17.28% chance of retaining the trophy. England, under Thomas Tuchel, carry the hopes of ending their 60-year drought, with a 35.04% chance of reaching the final and a 16.48% chance of winning.
Lower Seeds and Their Chances
The remaining four teams—Norway, Switzerland, Morocco, and Belgium—have significantly lower probabilities. Norway have a 6.57% chance, Switzerland 3.78%, Morocco 3.66%, and Belgium 3.58%. Most fans predict the final will feature two of the four top favourites: France, Spain, Argentina, or England.
In related news, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) sent a message to Egypt after their dramatic elimination by Argentina. The Pharaohs were on the verge of reaching the quarter-finals but conceded late goals, ending their campaign.
