When Are the 2026 FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals? Dates and ET Kickoff Times

After a Round of 16 filled with dramatic comebacks, shocking upsets and results that shattered expectations, the tournament has now set the four matchups that will determine the semifinalists of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The quarterfinals will be played between July 9 and July 11, featuring four matches that bring together historic football powers and two of the tournament's biggest surprise teams.

The previous round completely reshaped the championship picture, opening the door for teams like Norway and Morocco to continue dreaming of an unforgettable run. Meanwhile, traditional contenders such as France, Spain, England, and defending champions Argentina remain firmly in the hunt for the title.

Here's the full quarterfinal schedule, with all kickoff times in Eastern Time (ET):

• Thursday, July 9 | 4:00 p.m. ET | France vs. Morocco (Boston Stadium)
• Friday, July 10 | 3:00 p.m. ET | Spain vs. Belgium (Los Angeles Stadium)
• Saturday, July 11 | 5:00 p.m. ET | Norway vs. England (Miami Stadium)
• Saturday, July 11 | 9:00 p.m. ET | Argentina vs. Switzerland (Kansas Stadium)

Each matchup has all the ingredients to feel like a final before the final, with only four teams advancing to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

France vs. Morocco: The Favorite Meets the Tournament's Biggest Surprise

The first ticket to the semifinals will be decided between one of the tournament favorites and the team that has once again captured the world's attention.

France booked its place after edging Paraguay 1-0, thanks to a penalty converted by Kylian Mbappé, once again proving the strength and composure of a squad built for the biggest stages.

Standing in their way is Morocco, which cruised past Canada 3-0 and once again showed that its historic run at Qatar 2022 was no fluke. With an organized, aggressive side that thrives on the counterattack, the Atlas Lions will look to write another unforgettable chapter.

Spain vs. Belgium: Two Heavyweights Meet at the Perfect Time

The second quarterfinal will feature two European giants arriving with plenty of momentum.

Spain secured its place thanks to a dramatic late winner from Mikel Merino, defeating Portugal 1-0 in a match where La Roja controlled much of the play before finally breaking through in stoppage time.

Their opponent will be a Belgium side that delivered one of the Round of 16's most convincing performances, defeating the United States 4-1 with a ruthless attacking display that has fueled hopes of a deep tournament run.

Norway vs. England: The Tournament's Surprise Team Faces a Major Test

Later that day, another fascinating showdown will take place—one few expected when the tournament began. Norway, led by the outstanding form of Erling Haaland, stunned Brazil 2-1, becoming one of the biggest stories of the competition.

Awaiting them is an England side that had to battle until the final whistle to eliminate Mexico 3-2, powered by a brace from Jude Bellingham and another goal from Harry Kane. The winner will head into the semifinals with tremendous momentum.

Argentina vs. Switzerland: The Defending Champions Continue Their Quest for Back-to-Back Titles

Argentina once again showed why they should never be counted out. The defending world champions produced a spectacular comeback against Egypt after falling behind 2-0 through goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico.

Just when the upset seemed inevitable, Argentina's leaders stepped up. Cristian Romero sparked the comeback, Lionel Messi equalized, and deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernández capitalized on a defensive mistake to score the dramatic 3-2 winner that sent La Albiceleste into the quarterfinals.

Now, Lionel Scaloni's side will face Switzerland for a place in the semifinals, in what has all the makings of one of the most exciting matches of the entire round.

Follow all the action from the FIFA World Cup 2026 on beIN SPORTS.

WATCH beIN SPORTS XTRA LIVE FOR FREE ON YOUTUBE