World Cup 2026 Heats Up: Spain Stuns Portugal, Belgium Crushes USA to Set Up Quarterfinal Blockbusters
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well into its knockout stage, and the Round of 16 has delivered drama, heartbreak, and a couple of absolute thrillers. With six teams already through to the quarterfinals and two spots still up for grabs, the race to the trophy is getting tighter by the day.
Spain 1–0 Portugal: Ronaldo’s Last Dance Ends in Heartbreak
In what was arguably the most emotional match of the tournament so far, Spain edged past Portugal 1-0 in a tense Iberian derby at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The match looked destined for extra time until Mikel Merino popped up with a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send La Roja through.
The result marks the end of an era — Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, played his final World Cup match. The Portuguese legend had confirmed before the tournament that 2026 would be his last. Despite a heroic effort, Ronaldo’s Portugal couldn’t find a way past Spain’s organized defense, and his World Cup journey ends without the trophy that has eluded him throughout his legendary career.
USA 1–4 Belgium: Co-Hosts’ Dream Crushed in Seattle
It was a painfully familiar story for the United States Men’s National Team. Playing in front of a home crowd at Seattle Stadium, the USMNT saw their Round of 16 curse continue with a comprehensive 4-1 defeat at the hands of Belgium.
Charles De Ketelaere was the star of the show, bagging a brace (9′, 33′) to put Belgium in control. Malik Tillman pulled one back with a stunning free kick in the 31st minute, but Belgium responded instantly. Hans Vanaken added a third in the 57th minute after a costly error from US goalkeeper Matt Freese, and substitute Romelu Lukaku (his 93rd international goal) sealed the win in stoppage time.
The US has now failed to advance past the Round of 16 since 2002 — a drought that continues despite being one of the three co-hosts of this tournament.
Confirmed Quarterfinal Matchups
With six teams already qualified, here are the locked-in quarterfinal ties:
- 🇫🇷 France vs. 🇲🇦 Morocco — July 9, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough (4:00 PM ET)
- 🇳🇴 Norway vs. 🏴 England — July 11, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens (5:00 PM ET)
- 🇪🇸 Spain vs. 🇧🇪 Belgium — July 10, SoFi Stadium, Inglewood (12:00 PM PT)
Two more quarterfinal spots remain to be decided: Argentina vs. Egypt and Switzerland vs. Colombia, both playing on Tuesday, July 7.
What to Watch in the Quarterfinals
France vs. Morocco is a rematch of the 2022 semifinal, where France edged Morocco 2-0. The Atlas Lions will be hunting for revenge and another historic run.
Norway vs. England pits Erling Haaland against a star-studded English side — arguably the most anticipated match of the quarterfinals.
Spain vs. Belgium features two European heavyweights in red. Spain’s possession game against Belgium’s dangerous counter-attacking style — this one could go either way.
FAQ
When is the World Cup 2026 final?
The final will be held on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 quarterfinals?
In the US, matches are broadcast on Fox Sports, FS1, and streaming on Fubo and YouTube TV. Check local listings for exact channels.
Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
France, England, and Spain remain the betting favorites, but Norway and Morocco have proven they cannot be underestimated.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| July 7 | Argentina vs. Egypt (R16) | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood |
| July 7 | Switzerland vs. Colombia (R16) | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta |
| July 9 | France vs. Morocco (QF) | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough |
| July 10 | Spain vs. Belgium (QF) | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood |
| July 11 | Norway vs. England (QF) | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami |
| July 11 | QF4 TBD | Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City |
| July 14-15 | Semi-Finals | TBD |
| July 19 | Final | MetLife Stadium, NJ |
All times listed in local venue timezones. Check official FIFA channels for exact kickoff times.