The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 officially wrapped up on Tuesday, July 7, with two dramatic finishes that completed the quarterfinal lineup. Defending champions Argentina pulled off a stunning comeback against Egypt, while Switzerland needed penalties to edge past Colombia and reach their first quarterfinal since 1954.
The stage is now set for an electrifying knockout phase featuring eight teams: France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina, and Switzerland.
Round of 16 Recap: Drama in Atlanta and Vancouver
Argentina 3-2 Egypt — Trailing 2-0 with just over ten minutes remaining, La Albiceleste mounted a remarkable comeback. Cristian Romero headed home in the 79th minute, Lionel Messi equalized in the 83rd, and Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround. Messi’s goal was his eighth of the tournament, moving him to the top of the Golden Boot race ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
Switzerland 0-0 Colombia (4-3 pens) — In a tense defensive battle at BC Place in Vancouver, neither side could find the net in 120 minutes. Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel proved the hero, saving Cucho Hernandez’s spot-kick, while Davinson Sanchez hit the crossbar for Colombia. This marks Switzerland’s first quarterfinal appearance since they hosted the tournament in 1954.
The Four Quarterfinal Matchups
France vs Morocco — Thursday, July 9, 4:00 PM ET (Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA)
France arrives unbeaten after a 1-0 win over Paraguay, while Morocco impressed with a 3-0 demolition of co-host Canada. These two met in the 2022 semifinals — France won 2-0 en route to the title.
Spain vs Belgium — Friday, July 10, 3:00 PM ET (SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA)
Spain edged Portugal 1-0 in a tense Iberian derby, while Belgium crushed co-host USA 4-1 with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice. This could be the most technically polished match of the round.
Norway vs England — Saturday, July 11, 5:00 PM ET (Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL)
Norway produced the biggest upset so far, knocking out five-time champions Brazil 2-1 behind a brace from Erling Haaland. England survived a scare against co-host Mexico, winning 3-2. The match pits Haaland against England captain Harry Kane — two of the tournament’s top scorers.
Argentina vs Switzerland — Saturday, July 11, 9:00 PM ET (Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO)
The defending champions face a Swiss side known for grinding out knockout results. Messi’s heroics against Egypt have Argentina riding high, but Switzerland’s organized defense and newfound penalty confidence make this a tricky tie.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the World Cup 2026 Final?
The final takes place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Which big teams have been eliminated?
All three co-hosts (USA, Mexico, Canada) are out, along with heavyweights Brazil, Portugal, Germany, Netherlands, and Paraguay.
Who leads the Golden Boot race?
Lionel Messi leads with 8 goals, followed by Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland at 7 each, and Harry Kane at 6.
Upcoming Quarterfinal Schedule
- Thu, Jul 9 — France vs Morocco (4:00 PM ET, Foxborough) — FOX
- Fri, Jul 10 — Spain vs Belgium (3:00 PM ET, Inglewood) — FOX
- Sat, Jul 11 — Norway vs England (5:00 PM ET, Miami Gardens) — FOX
- Sat, Jul 11 — Argentina vs Switzerland (9:00 PM ET, Kansas City) — FOX
Semifinals follow on July 14 (Dallas) and July 15 (Atlanta), with the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. All matches broadcast live on FOX and fuboTV in the US.