The race to be crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions has narrowed to just eight nations following an action-packed Round of 16 that delivered dramatic upsets, unforgettable moments and high-quality football.
The tournament, which began with a record 48 teams, has now reached the quarter-final stage, with the remaining contenders just three victories away from lifting football’s biggest prize.
Africa’s remarkable campaign has also been trimmed down to one survivor. After nine African nations reached the knockout rounds, only Morocco remain in contention and will once again carry the continent’s hopes of producing its first-ever FIFA World Cup winner.
Europe dominates the last eight with six representatives—England, France, Spain, Belgium, Norway and Switzerland—while defending champions Argentina are South America’s sole remaining team.
Fans can now look forward to four blockbuster quarter-final clashes, with places in the semi-finals at stake.
2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final fixtures (East African Time)
France vs Morocco
Date: Thursday, July 9
Kick-off: 11:00 PM EAT
Venue: Boston Stadium, Foxborough
A repeat of the memorable 2022 World Cup semi-final sees Morocco looking to rewrite history against a French side chasing another world title.
Spain vs Belgium
Date: Friday, July 10
Kick-off: 10:00 PM EAT
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood
Two European heavyweights collide in what promises to be one of the most technically gifted encounters of the quarter-finals.
Norway vs England
Date: Sunday, July 12
Kick-off: 12:00 AM EAT
Venue: Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens
Norway’s impressive run faces its toughest challenge yet as England bid to reach another World Cup semi-final.
Argentina vs Switzerland
Date: Sunday, July 12
Kick-off: 4:00 AM EAT
Venue: Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City
Led by Lionel Messi, defending champions Argentina will be aiming to continue their title defence against a disciplined Swiss side that has been one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
With every match now carrying knockout stakes, the margin for error is non-existent. Four teams will move one step closer to World Cup glory, while the dreams of the other four will come to an end.
The quarter-finals promise world-class football, fierce rivalries and moments that could define the legacy of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
