The 2026 World Cup has delivered its first set of quarter-finalists after a breathtaking Round of 16 that saw Lionel Messi produce yet another moment of magic to keep Argentina alive, Switzerland reach the last eight for the first time since 1954, and several major storylines emerge from a dramatic knockout stage.
Argentina 3-2 Egypt: The Great Escape
In what is already being hailed as one of the greatest World Cup knockout matches in history, Argentina found themselves staring at elimination against a fearless Egypt side. Trailing 2-0 with just over 10 minutes remaining at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Lionel Scaloni’s champions looked on the verge of a monumental upset.
Egypt’s Yasser Ibrahim had headed home early in the first half, and Mostafa Ziko doubled the lead after the break following a dazzling run from Haissem Hassan. Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir — son of 1990 World Cup keeper Ahmed Shobeir — was in inspired form, saving a first-half penalty from Messi himself and making several world-class stops.
But true to his legend, Messi would not be denied. He provided a pinpoint assist for Cristian Romero to pull one back in the 79th minute, then equalized with a trademark finish four minutes later — despite Shobeir getting two hands to it. With the momentum fully shifted, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández headed home the winner from Lautaro MartĂnez’s cross, sparking wild celebrations and tears from the 39-year-old Messi, who was tossed into the air by his teammates.
Messi became the first player in history to score in six consecutive World Cup knockout matches, extending his all-time World Cup record to 21 goals — one ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. The victory was not without controversy, however, as Egypt were furious that a foul in the buildup was not reviewed by VAR.
Switzerland 0-0 Colombia (4-3 on penalties): Historic First
Switzerland booked their place in the quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years after a tense goalless draw against Colombia was decided from the spot. Despite missing star midfielder Johan Manzambi through injury, Murat Yakin’s disciplined side held firm through 120 minutes in Vancouver.
Gregor Kobel was the hero in the shootout, saving Cucho Hernández’s penalty after Davinson Sánchez had struck the crossbar. Ruben Vargas converted the decisive spot-kick to spark emotional celebrations among the Swiss contingent inside BC Place.
“This is a dream,” said Switzerland manager Murat Yakin. “I think I need another couple of hours or days to process what just happened.”
Quarter-Final Lineup
The eight teams remaining in the tournament are set for a fascinating quarter-final round:
- France vs Morocco — Thursday, July 9 (Boston) — 9 PM BST
- Spain vs Belgium — Friday, July 10 (Los Angeles) — 8 PM BST
- Norway vs England — Saturday, July 11 (Miami) — 10 PM BST
- Argentina vs Switzerland — Sunday, July 12 (Kansas City) — 2 AM BST
Other Notable Round of 16 Results
- England 3-2 Mexico — Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane led England past a spirited Mexico side in a thriller
- Spain 1-0 Portugal — A tight Iberian derby decided by a single goal
- Belgium 4-1 USA — Belgium cruised past the Americans in dominant fashion
- France 1-0 Paraguay — The reigning champions advanced with a workmanlike display
- Morocco 3-0 Canada — Morocco swept aside the co-hosts to continue Africa’s strong showing
- Norway 2-1 Brazil — Erling Haaland’s Norway stunned the five-time champions
FAQ
Who is the favorite to win the 2026 World Cup?
France remain the bookmakers’ favorites after their convincing group stage and solid Round of 16 performance. However, England’s attacking firepower and Argentina’s never-say-die spirit — powered by a motivated Messi — make them serious contenders. Norway’s surprise victory over Brazil has also caught the world’s attention.
What happened with Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic?
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic resigned following his team’s 2-1 defeat to Portugal in the Round of 32. The 2018 runners-up and 2022 bronze medalists failed to progress past the first knockout round, leading to Dalic’s immediate departure after eight years in charge.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals?
The matches will be broadcast globally through official FIFA broadcast partners. In the US, matches air on Fox Sports. In the UK, they are available on BBC and ITV. In Vietnam, viewers can watch on VTV and VieOn.
Upcoming Matches
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 9 | France vs Morocco | Boston | 21:00 |
| Jul 10 | Spain vs Belgium | Los Angeles | 20:00 |
| Jul 11 | Norway vs England | Miami | 22:00 |
| Jul 12 | Argentina vs Switzerland | Kansas City | 02:00 |
The semi-finals are scheduled for July 14-15, followed by the Third Place Play-off on July 18 and the Grand Final on Sunday, July 19. With the tournament now well past the halfway point, every match is do-or-die — and if the Round of 16 is any indication, we’re in for a spectacular conclusion.