2026 World Cup: Quarter-final fixtures confirmed

The race for a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun following the confirmation of the tournament's quarter-final fixtures.

Eight nations remain in contention for football's biggest prize, with four blockbuster encounters set to determine the teams that will advance to the last four.

The quarter-finals get underway on Thursday, 9 July, with France taking on Morocco in a rematch of their memorable 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar.

France emerged 2-0 winners on that occasion en route to the final, but Morocco will be hoping to overturn history and continue their remarkable rise on the global stage.

The following day, Spain face Belgium in what is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the round.

Both European powerhouses have produced impressive displays throughout the competition, combining attacking flair with technical quality as they battle for a place in the semi-finals.

The remaining quarter-final matches will be played on 11 and 12 July. Norway, one of the surprise packages of the tournament, will look to extend their impressive run when they meet England, who have been tipped among the favourites thanks to their blend of experienced stars and exciting young talent.

Defending champions Argentina complete the quarter-final line-up with a clash against Switzerland. The South Americans will aim to keep their title defence alive, while Switzerland seek to pull off another major upset and book a place in the last four.

With only three victories separating the remaining teams from lifting the World Cup trophy, every match promises to carry huge significance as the tournament enters its decisive stage.

2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final fixtures

• France vs Morocco — 9 July, 20:00 GMT
• Spain vs Belgium — 10 July, 19:00 GMT
• Norway vs England — 11 July, 21:00 GMT
• Argentina vs Switzerland — 12 July, 01:00 GMT