The Path to the Semifinals
Following a thrilling Round of 16, the World Cup field has narrowed to eight teams. After a brief hiatus, the knockout stage resumes this Thursday. Here is an analysis of how the four quarterfinal showdowns stack up.
4. Argentina vs. Switzerland
Switzerland has reached the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954 after an impressive victory over Colombia. While Argentina remains the favorite, the Swiss have shown remarkable composure. Argentina, meanwhile, has solidified its reputation as the "kings of drama," participating in some of the most intense elimination matches of the tournament. The Swiss are expected to adopt a defensive posture, though waiting until late in the match to challenge the defending champions is a high-risk strategy.
3. Belgium vs. Spain
Questions surround Belgium after their dominant performance against the United States. It remains to be seen if that showing was a true resurgence or a result of their opponent's defensive weaknesses. With star players like Kevin De Bruyne potentially sidelined or restricted, and Amadou Onana out for the remainder of the tournament due to a knee injury, Belgium faces a significant challenge against a lethal Spain squad. Spain has shown consistent growth, and their precise ball movement could overwhelm a depleted Belgian defense.
2. France vs. Morocco
This rematch of a previous semifinal serves as a marquee fixture. The 2026 version of Morocco has proven to be a much more potent offensive force, netting 10 goals in five matches compared to their more defensive-minded approach in 2022. However, they face a French side that is also offensively superior to its former iterations. With Kylian Mbappé in peak form, supported by dangerous attackers like Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele, France’s offensive depth is immense. However, both teams have shown relative defensive vulnerabilities that could be exploited in this high-stakes clash.
1. England vs. Norway
The most anticipated matchup of the round features two genuine title contenders. Norway’s campaign has been defined by the brilliance of Erling Haaland, who has already tallied seven goals. While England’s center-back pairing of John Stones and Marc Guehi is intimately familiar with Haaland’s tendencies through their club association, stopping him remains a monumental task.
«The Three Lions are also going from the altitude in Mexico City to the humidity in Miami. Though the win over Mexico didn't go to extra time, it was still a draining win — especially as England played much of the second half down a man. Norway won't be afraid to go at England, either.»
Norway enters this contest with momentum, having convincingly outperformed Brazil in the previous round, setting the stage for a tactical and physical battle.