FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals: Which team has best chance to win? Al Jazeera's ranking
Al Jazeera analyzes the quarterfinal teams: Switzerland is least likely, while England is the highest among those covered.
With 96 games played and eight matches remaining, the 2026 World Cup is down to its final eight teams. Al Jazeera has ranked the contenders from 8 to 1, but the provided text only covers six teams (positions 8 through 3).
8. Switzerland – The Swiss reached the quarterfinals for the first time in 72 years, benefiting from a relatively easy group (Canada, Bosnia, Qatar) and penalty shootout wins over Colombia. However, the potential injury of breakout star Johan Manzambi and a lack of attacking threat limit their chances against Argentina.
7. Morocco – After a dominant start against Brazil, Morocco failed to finish games convincingly. They edged past the Netherlands on penalties and beat Canada, but now face France, a team that eliminated them in 2022. The loss of top scorer Ismael Saibari further complicates their task.
6. Belgium – The Red Devils started slowly but improved after a tactical reshuffle against the USA. They benefited from poor defending against Senegal and New Zealand, but Spain's stingy defense poses a huge challenge. This may be the end for Belgium's golden generation.
5. Norway – Norway reached the knockout stage for the first time in 28 years, showing ruthlessness in attack. Erling Haaland has seven goals, and Martin Ødegaard has three assists. However, their defense is vulnerable (one clean sheet in 12 games). The quarterfinal against England promises goals.
4. Argentina – The defending champions have relied heavily on Lionel Messi (eight goals) to overcome tough challenges. Their starting XI is the second oldest ever fielded, and defensive weaknesses were exposed by Cape Verde and Egypt. A potential semifinal against England or Norway looms.
3. England – Thomas Tuchel's side reached the quarters after a memorable 3-2 win over Mexico while down to 10 men. Injuries to key players like Rice, Saka, and James are concerns, but Kane and Bellingham are fit. England fear no one in their half of the draw and could reach their first final since 1966.
The top two spots (likely France and Spain) are not covered in the provided text.
