World Cup Quarterfinals Preview

The field has been trimmed from 48 teams to just eight, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals promise four outstanding matchups featuring tournament favorites, Cinderella stories and several of the game’s biggest stars.

France leads the World Cup odds board at +185, while Spain, Argentina and England also remain the top favorites to lift the trophy. But, Morocco, Norway, Belgium and Switzerland have all proven they can upset anyone on the world’s biggest stage.

Quarterfinal Schedule and Odds

*Odds are subject to change. Check BetOnline.ag for the latest World Cup betting lines before wagering.

France vs. Morocco

Thursday, July 9 – 4:00 PM ET

France has looked every bit like a tournament favorite, combining a dangerous attack with one of the deepest squads remaining. Morocco, meanwhile, continues its remarkable run after eliminating both the Netherlands and Canada, proving once again that its defensive organization can frustrate elite opponents.

Players to Watch

France's Kylian Mbappé has been the tournament's most dangerous attacker, entering the quarterfinals with 5 goals and 2 assists, placing him among the Golden Boot leaders. Achraf Hakimi continues to influence matches for Morocco at both ends of the pitch with one goal and 2 assists while helping Morocco concede just three goals through five matches. 

Betting Tip

France to win and under 3.5 goals is a solid angle. Morocco can keep this close, but France has more ways to create chances.

Keys to Advancing

France must finish early chances and avoid allowing Morocco to slow the match down. Morocco needs to stay compact defensively, limit space behind the back line and take advantage of counterattacks or set pieces.

Next Match: The winner advances to the semifinal on Tuesday, July 14 at 3:00 PM ET to face the winner of Spain vs. Belgium.

These sportsbooks have the most bets and best odds for the 2026 World Cup!

Spain vs. Belgium

Friday, July 10 – 3:00 PM ET

Spain has quietly become one of the tournament’s most complete teams, controlling possession and allowing very few quality chances. Belgium arrives full of confidence after knocking out Team USA and will rely heavily on its experienced attacking core. 

Players to Watch

18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal has lived up to the hype for Spain with 3 goals and 3 assists, combining elite creativity with fearless attacking play. Belgium's captain has orchestrated the attack with 2 goals and 4 assists, including a standout performance in the Round of 16 victory over the United States. If Belgium is to pull the upset, Kevin De Bruyne will almost certainly be involved. 

Betting Tip

Spain on the moneyline is the lean. Belgium has enough attacking quality to make this dangerous, but Spain’s control in midfield gives it the edge.

Keys to Advancing

Spain must dominate possession, stay patient and prevent Belgium from turning the match into an open, end-to-end contest. Belgium needs to create space in transition and be clinical with limited scoring chances.

Next Match: The winner advances to the semifinal on Tuesday, July 14 at 3:00 PM ET versus either France or Morocco.

Norway vs. England

Saturday, July 11 – 5:00 PM ET

Perhaps the most intriguing quarterfinal features England against tournament surprise Norway. Norway has already proven it can take down elite opposition, while England continues to find ways to win even when it is not at its best.

Players to Watch

England's Erling Haaland has been one of the 2026 World Cup's breakout stars, scoring 5 goals with physicality and finishing ability while leading Norway to its deepest World Cup run in decades. Harry Kane has quietly produced 4 goals and 2 assists, continuing to deliver in knockout matches for the Brits. His combination play with Jude Bellingham has been central to England's attack. 

Betting Tip

Both teams to score is worth a look. Norway has the attacking threat to trouble England, while England has enough talent to answer.

Keys to Advancing

Norway must get service into dangerous areas early and force England’s defense to deal with pressure for long stretches. England needs to control the midfield, avoid defensive mistakes and make its possession count in the final third.

Next Match: The winner advances to the semifinal on Wednesday, July 15 at 3:00 PM ET to face the winner of Argentina vs. Switzerland.

Argentina vs. Switzerland

Saturday, July 11 – 9:00 PM ET

Argentina continues its push for another World Cup title after surviving a tough Round of 16 match against Egypt. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals in dramatic fashion by beating Colombia in a penalty shootout and has shown it can drag opponents into low-scoring, uncomfortable matches. 

Players to Watch

Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi continues to deliver on the biggest stage with 5 goals and 3 assists, including the winner against Egypt in the Round of 16. Gregor Kobel has been one of the tournament's best goalkeepers, posting three clean sheets and making the decisive save during Switzerland's penalty shootout victory over Colombia. Switzerland's hopes of another upset begin with their No. 1.

Betting Tip

Argentina to advance is the safest play. Switzerland can keep this close, but Argentina has more match-winners and more experience in these moments.

Keys to Advancing

Argentina must dictate tempo, stay patient and avoid giving Switzerland a path to penalties. Switzerland needs to defend in numbers, frustrate Argentina and keep the match within reach late.

Next Match: The winner advances to the semifinal on Wednesday, July 15 at 3:00 PM ET against either Norway or England.

Top Betting Angles for the 2026 World Cup Quarterfinals

• France Moneyline – France has the depth and attacking quality to end Morocco’s run.
• Spain Moneyline – Spain’s midfield control and defensive structure make it the preferred side.
• Both Teams to Score: Norway vs. England – Both sides have enough attacking ability to find the net.
• Argentina to Advance – Argentina’s experience should be enough against a disciplined Swiss team.

With a semifinal berth on the line, expect tighter matches, fewer mistakes and a greater emphasis on tactical discipline. Every remaining nation is just two victories away from playing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup championship, making this one of the most compelling weekends of the tournament.

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