World Cup 2026 Quarterfinals: Ranking the Four Matches from Most to Least Exciting

World Cup 2026: Four Quarterfinal Matches Ranked

Only eight teams remain out of the original 48 in this World Cup. The quarterfinals kick off Thursday, marking the first day without a match since the tournament started. Here’s our take on how these four games compare after an impressive Round of 16.

4. Argentina vs. Switzerland

Saturday | 9 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: Argentina (-285), Switzerland (+220)

Switzerland’s presence here is surprising but well-earned—they’re back in the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954 after knocking out Colombia. While a clash between Argentina and Colombia might have felt more intense due to their recent Copa América final and Colombia’s competitive history against Argentina, Switzerland deserves respect.

Argentina has been the masters of dramatic knockout games so far, delivering two of the tournament's most thrilling matches. Both sides bring experience, but Switzerland will likely adopt a defensive posture. Trying to hold off Argentina’s attack late in the game could be a tough challenge for the Swiss.

3. Belgium vs. Spain

Friday | 3 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: Spain (-325), Belgium (+250)

Belgium’s commanding win over the United States raised questions—is this a turning point or a rare spark in an otherwise quiet World Cup? Key players like Kevin De Bruyne missed significant minutes, but substitutes Jeremy Doku and Romelu Lukaku were dangerous when they came on. It’s unclear how much the US defense contributed to Belgium’s success.

Spain has grown stronger as the tournament progressed, though their win over Portugal was secured only in the final moments. Portugal’s defense has been solid, conceding just three goals in five matches. Belgium relies on Thibaut Courtois in goal, but Spain’s fluid passing could trouble Belgium’s midfield and defense, especially with Amadou Onana sidelined by a knee injury.

2. France vs. Morocco

Thursday | 4 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: France (-375), Morocco (+275)

This quarterfinal is a rematch of last World Cup’s semifinal, yet it doesn’t take the top spot here. Morocco has stepped up its offense, scoring 10 goals in five games—an improvement over their 2022 performance where they had multiple scoreless matches. Defensively, they were tough last time, but France handed them a 2-0 loss in that semifinal.

France boasts a more potent attack than before. Kylian Mbappé trails only Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot, backed by teammates Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Bradley Barcola who all keep defenders busy. Still, France’s defense isn’t as solid as in previous years, relying heavily on offense to mask midfield weaknesses. Morocco could pose the toughest defensive test France has faced so far.

1. England vs. Norway

Saturday | 5 p.m. ET | TV: FoxOdds: England (-225), Norway (+175)

This match tops the list because both teams genuinely have chances to win the World Cup. Erling Haaland’s debut World Cup has been remarkable. Even after missing a group stage game alongside other starters, he’s scored seven goals while his teammates added four more. Norway turns into a formidable force with Haaland leading the attack, averaging over a goal per international game.

England’s center backs know Haaland well, including John Stones and Marc Guehi who are club teammates with him at Manchester City. Ezri Konsa has also faced Haaland in the Premier League. The English team moves from the high altitude of Mexico City to Miami’s humidity, which could affect their stamina after a draining win over Mexico that saw them play much of the second half a man down.

Norway showed no fear against Brazil, arguably the better side in that encounter. This clash promises intensity and skill from both sides.