World Cup 2026 Quarterfinals Set After Hosts Eliminated

The 2026 World Cup quarterfinals are set, with eight teams remaining: France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina, and Switzerland. All three host nations—United States, Canada, and Mexico—were eliminated in the round of 16, marking the first time since 1994 that no host has advanced to the quarterfinals Source: CNN.

Host nations depart early

Canada fell 0-3 to Morocco, Mexico lost 2-3 to England, and the USA suffered a 1-4 defeat against Belgium Source: elnacionalve. The USA game was overshadowed by the controversial reinstatement of Folarin Balogun, who had been sent off in the previous match but was allowed to play by FIFA Source: lavanguardia.

Round of 16 highlights

Norway produced the biggest shock, eliminating Brazil 2-1 with a double from Erling Haaland, ending Brazil's hopes and likely Neymar's World Cup career Source: mileniomx. Argentina mounted a stunning comeback from 0-2 down to beat Egypt 3-2, with goals from Cuti Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernández Source: infobae. Spain edged Portugal 1-0 with a late Mikel Merino header, sending Cristiano Ronaldo into retirement Source: abces. Morocco and France progressed comfortably, setting up a rematch of their 2022 semifinal Source: lavanguardia.

Quarterfinal preview

The matchups are: France vs. Morocco (July 9), Spain vs. Belgium (July 10), Norway vs. England (July 11), and Argentina vs. Switzerland (July 12) . Europe dominates with six representatives, while South America relies solely on reigning champion Argentina . The tournament concludes on July 19 in New York.