The stage is set for an epic showdown in North America as the 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches the quarterfinal stage.
Following an action-packed Round of 16 that saw traditional powerhouses pushed to their limits and shocking exits—including Norway’s stunning 2–1 upset over Brazil—only eight elite teams remain.
The remaining contenders feature a mix of tournament favorites and resilient dark horses: France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina, and Switzerland.
Below is the comprehensive guide to the quarterfinal fixtures, converted to West Africa Time (WAT).
2026 FIFA World Cup Quarterfinal Fixtures (WAT)
The final eight teams will compete across three action-packed days between July 9 and July 12, 2026.
France vs. Morocco
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Time: 9:00 PM WAT
Venue: Boston Stadium, Foxborough
Spain vs. Belgium
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM WAT
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, California
Norway vs. England
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 10:00 PM WAT
Venue: Miami Stadium, Florida
Argentina vs. Switzerland
Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
Time: 2:00 AM WAT (Late Saturday night/Early Sunday morning)
Venue: Kansas City Stadium, Missouri
Strategic Matchups: What to Expect
France vs. Morocco: The Ultimate Rematch
Kicking off the quarterfinals on Thursday night, Kylian Mbappé’s France will look to assert their dominance against a resilient Moroccan side. Morocco continues to show they are no fluke in the knockout stages, but they face a monumental task in keeping the clinical French attack at bay.
Spain vs. Belgium: The European Masterclass
Friday’s prime-time slot features a tactical heavyweight clash. Spain entered the tournament carrying immense hype, but they meet a revitalized Belgium side that confidently brushed past the United States with a 4–1 victory in the Round of 16. This match promises beautiful, fluid transition football.
Norway vs. England:
England managed to survive a scare against Mexico, winning a tight 3–2 encounter thanks to the brilliance of Jude Bellingham. However, their quarterfinal opponents, Norway, are riding the ultimate wave of momentum after shockingly knocking out five-time world champions Brazil. Erling Haaland will undoubtedly be looking to exploit a shaky English backline.
Argentina vs. Switzerland:
For Nigerian fans willing to stay up late into Sunday morning, Lionel Messi and Argentina continue their quest to defend their global crown. They face a stubborn Switzerland team that reached this stage by winning a high-pressure penalty shootout against Colombia.
The four quarterfinal winners will progress to the semifinals before competing for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
