The 2026 World Cup has trimmed from 48 to eight teams, with quarter‑finals kicking off Thursday. Fans focus on France‑Morocco and Spain‑Belgium, where early‑round performance sets the stage for the tournament’s climax.

France, led by Kylian Mbappe, advanced after a 3‑0 win over Sweden and a narrow 1‑0 victory against Paraguay. With seven goals, Mbappe sits beside Messi on the all‑time list. The attack, featuring Olise and Dembele, has gelled, but a suspension for Olise or Barcola would blunt creative output.

Morocco’s back‑up star Achraf Hakimi, fresh from consecutive Champions League titles, has driven the team’s offense. Ayyoub Bouaddi, 18, has become a midfield fulcrum. Morocco’s six goal‑scorers show depth, yet injuries to Saibari risk exposing a “nearly men” reputation.

Spain’s defense, anchored by 19‑year‑old Pau Cubarsi, has kept a clean‑sheet record, while Belgium relies on Romelu Lukaku’s 3‑goal haul and Leandro Trossard’s 2‑goals, 2‑assists. The clash will decide which side can maintain momentum into the semi‑finals, impacting fan expectations and future squad dynamics.