Crunch Time! World Cup Quarter Finals Predictions.
And then there was 8!

Photo: Getty Images
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its defining stage.
Only eight nations remain, and every match now has the potential to shape football history. Former champions, surprise packages and tournament favourites collide in four blockbuster quarter-finals, with a place in the semi-finals on the line.
Here are my predictions for each quarter-final.
Morocco vs France
Prediction: Morocco 1-3 France
Goalscorer Tip: Desire Doue
Morocco have once again proven they belong among the world's elite, backing up their remarkable 2022 campaign with another deep World Cup run. Their defensive organisation has frustrated some of the best attacking sides in the tournament, while their pace on the counter has made them incredibly dangerous.
Unfortunately for the Atlas Lions, they now face the competition's most complete side.
France have been the standout team of the tournament, combining devastating attacking football with a midfield that controls games from start to finish. Every member of their front line looks capable of producing a match-winning moment, and their squad depth is unmatched.
Morocco should have their moments, but France's quality across the pitch should eventually prove too much, they look unbeatable right now, and with no Ismael Saibari, Morocco will need a monumental performance.
Spain vs Belgium
Prediction: Spain 2-0 Belgium
Goalscorer Tip: Lamine Yamal
Belgium finally found their best football in the Round of 16, dismantling the United States with an emphatic 4-1 victory. Their experienced stars look refreshed, and they'll believe they can challenge anyone remaining.
Spain, however, have quietly gone about their business all tournament.
They've conceded 0 goals, dominated possession in nearly every game and continue to create chances through intelligent movement rather than individual brilliance alone. Their young stars have stepped onto the world stage without fear, and their defensive structure has been the tournament's strongest.
Expect Belgium to threaten, but Spain's ability to dictate the tempo, and ability to keep clean sheets should see them progress.
England vs Norway
Prediction: England 2-2 Norway (England win on penalties)
Goalscorer Tip: Erling Haaland
This has all the makings of the match of the round.
Norway have become the surprise package of the World Cup, highlighted by their stunning victory over Brazil. Erling Haaland continues to deliver on the biggest stage, while Norway's belief grows with every passing match.
England, meanwhile, have survived several difficult tests and continue to find ways to win. Their experience in knockout football, combined with one of the tournament's deepest squads, gives them a slight edge despite Norway's incredible momentum.
Expect goals, drama and plenty of tension before penalties ultimately decide the contest. If Norway can defend as well as they did against Brazil, do not be surprised if they can pull off another historic win. This one is a 50/50 for me.
Argentina vs Switzerland
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Switzerland
Goalscorer Tip: Lionel Messi
Switzerland have quietly put together another outstanding World Cup campaign, eliminating Colombia on penalties and proving once again that they are one of international football's most difficult teams to break down.
Argentina know they'll need to improve after conceding twice against Egypt and Cape Verde, but tournament football often comes down to moments of brilliance.
With Lionel Messi still producing those moments, it's difficult to back against the reigning champions.
Switzerland will make life uncomfortable and have been super organised, professional, and composed on the ball, but Argentina should have enough quality to book another semi-final appearance.
Predicted Semi-Finals:
France vs Spain
England vs Argentina
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