World Cup 2026 Quarter-Final Bracket: Full Breakdown
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its quarter-final stage, and the bracket is set for a thrilling knockout phase. With all three co-host nations eliminated in the Round of 16, the tournament has taken an unpredictable turn. Six of the eight quarter-finalists are confirmed, with the final two spots to be decided today (July 7). Here is the complete breakdown of every quarter-final matchup, key storylines, and what to expect.
Key Match Facts
- QF1: Morocco vs France — July 9, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
- QF2: Spain vs Belgium — July 10, SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
- QF3: Norway vs England — July 11, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
- QF4: Winner of Argentina/Egypt vs Winner of Switzerland/Colombia — July 12, Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
QF1: Morocco vs France — A Rematch for the Ages
Morocco and France meet again in a World Cup knockout match, four years after their 2022 semi-final clash. France won that encounter 2-0, but Morocco have since established themselves as a force in world football. The Atlas Lions defeated Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16, while France edged Paraguay 1-0. This match promises to be a tactical battle, with Morocco’s disciplined defense facing France’s potent attack led by Kylian Mbappé, who is tied for the Golden Boot with 7 goals.
QF2: Spain vs Belgium — Clean Sheet Kings vs Red Devils
Spain have been the defensive standout of the tournament, not conceding a single goal in six matches. Their 1-0 win over Portugal in the Round of 16, courtesy of a 90+1-minute header from Mikel Merino, showcased their resilience. Belgium, meanwhile, thrashed the USA 4-1 with a brace from Charles De Ketelaere. This clash at SoFi Stadium will test Spain’s unbeatable defense against Belgium’s attacking flair.
QF3: Norway vs England — Haaland vs Bellingham
Norway shocked Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals. England survived a scare against Mexico, winning 3-2 thanks to a Jude Bellingham brace. This quarter-final is a showdown between two of the world’s best young talents: Haaland and Bellingham. Both are tied on 7 goals for the Golden Boot, adding extra spice to this encounter at Hard Rock Stadium.
QF4: TBD — The Final Quarter-Final
The last quarter-final will be decided today. Argentina face Egypt, while Switzerland take on Colombia. The winners will meet on July 12 at Arrowhead Stadium. Lionel Messi, also on 7 goals, will be key for Argentina if they advance.
Key Player Stats
| Player | Goals | Assists | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kylian Mbappé | 7 | 2 | France |
| Erling Haaland | 7 | 1 | Norway |
| Lionel Messi | 7 | 3 | Argentina |
| Jude Bellingham | 5 | 2 | England |
| Charles De Ketelaere | 4 | 1 | Belgium |
Golden Boot Race Heats Up
Three players are tied on 7 goals: Mbappé, Haaland, and Messi. With only three matches left for each player (if their teams advance), the race is wide open. Bellingham is close behind with 5 goals. The quarter-finals will be crucial for these stars to stake their claim for the Golden Boot.
What’s Next: Semi-Final Projections
The semi-finals are set based on the bracket: SF1 will feature the winner of QF1 vs QF2 on July 14, and SF2 will feature the winner of QF3 vs QF4 on July 15. If form holds, we could see a France vs Spain semi-final and an England vs Argentina semi-final. The final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium.
Where to Watch
All matches will be broadcast live on Fox Sports (USA), BBC and ITV (UK), and Star Sports (India). Streaming is available on Fox Sports app, BBC iPlayer, and Hotstar. For fans in Nepal, matches will be shown on Star Sports and streamed on Hotstar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were all co-hosts eliminated in the Round of 16?
USA, Canada, and Mexico all lost in the Round of 16, marking the first time in World Cup history that all co-hosts failed to reach the quarter-finals. This was due to tough draws and inconsistent performances.
What is the World Cup 2026 quarterfinal bracket schedule?
QF1: Morocco vs France (July 9), QF2: Spain vs Belgium (July 10), QF3: Norway vs England (July 11), QF4: TBD (July 12). All times ET.
Who are the top scorers in the 2026 World Cup?
Kylian Mbappé (France), Erling Haaland (Norway), and Lionel Messi (Argentina) are tied on 7 goals each.
How can I watch the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals?
In the USA, Fox Sports. In the UK, BBC and ITV. In India, Star Sports. Streaming on Fox Sports app, BBC iPlayer, and Hotstar.
What is the semi-final bracket for World Cup 2026?
SF1: Winner QF1 vs Winner QF2 (July 14). SF2: Winner QF3 vs Winner QF4 (July 15).
