World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals Set: Messi Rescues Argentina, Switzerland Stuns Colombia on Penalties

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# World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals Set: Messi Rescues Argentina, Switzerland Stuns Colombia on Penalties

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage has delivered non-stop drama as the quarter-final lineup is now fully confirmed. With the Round of 16 wrapping up on Wednesday night, eight teams remain in the hunt for the trophy at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

## Round of 16 Results — The Complete Picture

## Argentina’s Great Escape — Messi Magic Denies Egypt

The biggest thriller came on Tuesday night in Atlanta. Defending champions Argentina trailed 2-0 against Egypt with just 11 minutes remaining before Lionel Messi produced yet another miracle. Egypt had taken a first-half lead through Yasser Ibrahim’s bullet header, and Mostafa Ziko doubled their advantage after the break.

The 39-year-old Messi — who had earlier missed his second penalty of the tournament — set up Cristian Romero for a lifeline in the 79th minute, then equalized four minutes later. In the 89th minute, Enzo Fernández headed home the winner from Lautaro Martínez’s cross to complete a stunning comeback.

Messi became the first player in World Cup history to score in six consecutive knockout matches and now leads the Golden Boot race with 8 goals — one ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.

## Switzerland Advances on Penalties for First QF Since 1954

In Vancouver, Switzerland edged Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw through 120 minutes. It was a tactical chess match with few clear chances. Colombia’s Jaminton Campaz missed a golden opportunity in the 116th minute, firing over from 10 yards.

In the shootout, Davinson Sánchez hit the crossbar and Gregor Kobel saved Cucho Hernández’s penalty, with Ruben Vargas converting the winner. Switzerland will face Argentina in the quarter-finals — their first appearance at this stage since 1954.

## Other Key Results

**Norway 2-1 Brazil** — Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway stunned the five-time champions in Houston, ending Brazil’s campaign in the Round of 16 for the second consecutive World Cup.

**England 3-2 Mexico** — England came from behind to edge the co-hosts in a wild match at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham starred in a memorable comeback victory.

**Belgium 4-1 USA** — Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated a dominant performance as Belgium dismantled the co-hosts in Inglewood, ending America’s run.

## Quarter-Final Schedule

## Looking Ahead

The quarter-finals kick off today with France taking on a resilient Morocco side in Boston. France — led by Kylian Mbappé — have been clinical in the knockout rounds, dispatching Sweden 3-0 before edging Paraguay 1-0. Morocco have impressed as the tournament’s surprise package, their organized defense and counter-attacking style causing problems for every opponent they’ve faced.

England’s clash with Norway on Saturday is particularly intriguing — it pits Harry Kane against Erling Haaland, the two leading Premier League scorers who will battle not just for a semi-final spot but for individual supremacy.

The semi-finals are scheduled for July 14-15, with the third-place match on July 18 and the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

### FAQ

**Q: Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?**
A: In the US, matches are broadcast on Fox Sports, FS1, and streamed on FuboTV. Check your local listings for exact channels.

**Q: Who is the current Golden Boot leader?**
A: Lionel Messi leads with 8 goals, followed by Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland on 7.

*Stay tuned for more World Cup 2026 coverage as the drama continues!*

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