Teams Still Fighting in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16
This World Cup started with an unprecedented 48 teams, but only one will hoist the trophy on July 19. The tournament quickly shrank from 48 to 32, then to 16, and now only eight squads remain, setting the stage for the quarterfinals.
Many of the sport's biggest names remain in contention, including some recent champions. Here's an updated look at the teams still alive in the tournament.
Highlights of the Quarterfinalists
- Morocco stunned the Netherlands in penalties during the Round of 32 and crushed Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. This marks the first African nation to reach back-to-back quarterfinals. Morocco seeks revenge against France, who eliminated them last year in the semifinals.
- France dominated Sweden 3-0 and edged Paraguay 1-0 thanks to a late penalty by Kylian Mbappe. This is France's fourth straight quarterfinal appearance, and a victory over Morocco would send them to their third consecutive semifinals.
- Norway reached its first quarterfinal after upsetting Brazil, with Erling Haaland scoring two late goals following a tough Round of 32 win over Ivory Coast. They face England next.
- England made it to the quarterfinals for the third time running after narrow wins against DR Congo and Mexico. Their next challenge is Norway.
- Spain remains unbeaten without conceding a goal this tournament. Their 1-0 win over Portugal ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup run.
- Belgium bounced back from a shaky group stage with a strong 4-1 win over the United States amid some controversy.
- Argentina came from behind to beat Egypt, with Lionel Messi scoring a critical equalizer when his team was down 2-0 late in the second half.
- Switzerland advanced by winning a penalty shootout against Colombia as underdogs and will meet Argentina next.
FIFA World Rankings of Remaining Teams
Teams like Brazil, Netherlands, and Mexico were highly ranked but have already exited. The top four ranked teams remain contenders for the title.
