The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches the quarter-finals today, July 9, with just eight teams left in the race for football’s biggest prize.
Alongside the battle for a place in the semi-finals, the race for the Golden Boot is also heating up. Argentina captain Lionel Messi leads the scoring chart with eight goals, while France’s Kylian Mbappé and Norway’s Erling Haaland are one behind on seven.
France vs Morocco
The quarter-finals open with a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, which France won 2-0 before going on to lift the trophy. France have also dominated this fixture historically, winning five of the previous eight meetings, while the other three ended in draws. Morocco are still seeking their first win over Les Bleus.
France have again looked like serious title contenders after beating Paraguay in the Round of 16. Mbappé has led the attack with seven goals and remains firmly in the Golden Boot race. The Real Madrid forward has also taken his World Cup tally to 19 goals, closing in on Messi’s record of 21 goals.
Morocco, the last African side left in the tournament, reached the last eight after defeating Canada. They will again rely on captain Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Azzedine Ounahi, who scored twice in that victory, to inspire another upset.
Spain vs Belgium
Spain face Belgium in one of the standout ties of the quarter-finals. Spain have combined their trademark possession football with a sharper edge in attack, while Belgium have relied on pace and power in transition.
Spain’s creative spark has come from teenage winger Lamine Yamal, while Belgium will look to Jérémy Doku to stretch the Spanish defence. Both teams have been among the tournament’s highest scorers.
Norway vs England
Norway have been one of the tournament’s biggest surprises after knocking out five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 16. Haaland has driven that run with seven goals, leaving him level with Mbappé in the Golden Boot race.
England reached the quarter-finals by beating Mexico. Jude Bellingham has controlled the midfield, while Harry Kane continues to provide experience and goals. Victory would move England within one game of a first World Cup final since 1966, while Norway are chasing a historic first appearance.
Argentina vs Switzerland
Defending champions Argentina take on a Switzerland side that has exceeded expectations. Messi leads the tournament with eight goals after another influential campaign.
Switzerland reached the quarter-finals by beating Colombia on penalties after a goalless draw. Led by Granit Xhaka, they will hope their defensive organisation can contain Argentina’s attack in what promises to be one of the most intriguing tactical battles of the last eight.
As the tournament enters its decisive stage, the races for the World Cup trophy and the Golden Boot are becoming increasingly linked. Messi, Mbappé and Haaland remain in contention for both, making the quarter-finals significant in more ways than one.
