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The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals have delivered drama, heartbreak, and a touch of magic as the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico barrels toward its conclusion. With two semi-final spots already claimed and two more up for grabs, here is everything you need to know from the latest knockout action.
Quarter-Final Results
| Match | Score | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| France vs Morocco | 2 – 0 | Miami, FL | July 9 |
| Spain vs Belgium | 2 – 1 | Los Angeles, CA | July 10 |
| Norway vs England | 1 – 1 (ET) | Miami, FL | July 11 |
| Argentina vs Switzerland | Upcoming | Houston, TX | July 11/12 |
Spain 2 – 1 Belgium: Merino Does It Again
Mikel Merino cemented his status as Spain’s super-sub with yet another late winner — his third consecutive knockout match heroics. With the score locked at 1-1 and less than five minutes remaining, Merino was introduced in the 85th minute and scored in the 88th, pouncing on a spilled shot by Belgium’s substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens after Thibaut Courtois was forced off with a thigh injury.
Fabián Ruiz had opened the scoring for Spain in the first half after a slick move involving Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro. But Belgium fought back through a Charles De Ketelaere header just before half-time. Despite dominating possession and chances, Spain could not find a breakthrough until Merino’s latest intervention — a goal celebrated with his two-month-old son Marco watching from the stands.
Courtois’ injury departure in tears summed up a cruel night for Belgium, who also lost Kevin De Bruyne to injury in the second half. Spain’s perfect defensive record of the tournament also ended when De Ketelaere scored — their first goal conceded after six matches.
France Cruise Past Morocco
In the first quarter-final played July 9 in Miami, France dispatched Morocco 2-0 with a composed performance. Kylian Mbappé, who is tied with Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot with 8 goals each, was once again influential as Les Bleus marched into their second consecutive World Cup semi-final.
Norway vs England: Extra-Time Thriller
The highest-profile quarter-final saw England take on Erling Haaland’s Norway in Miami. The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes, forcing extra time. England struck first through a well-worked team goal, but Norway — driven by their talisman Haaland — responded to level the scores. The match remains locked as the teams battle into the additional 30 minutes for a place in the semi-finals.
Argentina vs Switzerland: Battle of the Underdogs
Later tonight in Houston, defending champions Argentina face a resilient Switzerland side that has already exceeded expectations. Lionel Messi, joint top-scorer with 8 goals, will look to lead his team past the Swiss defense and set up a potential semi-final clash against the Norway/England winner.
Semi-Final Schedule
| Semi-Final | Teams | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Final 1 | France vs Spain | July 14 | TBD |
| Semi-Final 2 | Winner Match 99 vs Winner Match 100 | July 15 | TBD |
Match 99: Winner of Norway/England vs Winner of Argentina/Switzerland
Match 100: France vs Spain (already set)
Key Stats & Records
- Total goals scored: 285 across 98 matches (2.91 per game)
- Total attendance: 6,393,887 — a new World Cup record
- Golden Boot leaders: Lionel Messi (ARG) & Kylian Mbappé (FRA) — 8 goals each
Upcoming Schedule
- July 11/12 — Argentina vs Switzerland (Quarter-Final)
- July 14 — Semi-Final 1: France vs Spain
- July 15 — Semi-Final 2
- July 18 — Third Place Match
- July 19 — Final at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Looking Ahead: The semi-final between France and Spain promises to be a tactical masterclass, with both teams boasting exceptional midfield depth and attacking firepower. On the other side of the bracket, England or Norway will fancy their chances against an Argentina side that has looked vulnerable despite their star power — but underestimating Messi would be foolish.
Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for continuing coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the tournament heads toward its grand finale on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.