The quarterfinal stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins this week with four matches in the United States. These games will decide which four teams move on to the semifinals. The expanded 48 team tournament has reached this point after group stage and round of 16 matches.
Here is the full quarterfinal schedule:
Thursday, July 9, at 4 p.m. ET: France vs Morocco at Boston Stadium (Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts).
Friday, July 10, at 3 p.m. ET: Spain vs Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California).
Saturday, July 11, at 5 p.m. ET: Norway vs England at Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida).
Saturday, July 11, at 9 p.m. ET: Argentina vs Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium (Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri).
The winners of these matches will play in the semifinals on July 14. The final is scheduled for July 19.
France enters as one of the favorites with strong attacking options led by forward Kylian Mbappe. Morocco brings defensive strength and counter attacking speed from their recent World Cup runs. Spain relies on technical play and midfield control. Belgium has experienced players who can create chances. Norway features physical style and set piece threats. England looks for consistency in knockout games. Argentina carries the experience of recent champions with Lionel Messi still influential. Switzerland offers organized defense and quick transitions.
Fans and analysts will watch for several key elements. Mbappe's speed and finishing against Morocco’s back line could decide the opener. Spain and Belgium may produce a tactical battle in midfield. England’s attacking width against Norway’s organization is another point of interest. Messi’s playmaking with Argentina against Switzerland’s compact shape will draw attention.
These quarterfinals connect the early tournament form to the final stages. Teams that advanced through tough round of 16 games now face higher stakes. The US venues bring large crowds and strong atmospheres to the matches. All four games take place in major American stadiums that have hosted big events before.
The schedule gives teams rest days between some matches while keeping the tournament moving quickly. Viewers can follow the action across different time zones in the United States. The results here will shape the path to the semifinals and the final.