Africa’s last chance? Four big stories of Globe Cup 2026 quarterfinals
The biggest football tournament is entering its final stretch. Eight of the strongest
national teams are competing for the trophy, but for millions of fans in Africa,
there’s only one question: Can Morocco continue its historic run?
Following the elimination of Senegal, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Algeria, South Africa, and
the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Atlas Lions remain the continent’s last
hope. Four quarterfinal matches await, and each is worth watching.
France vs Morocco. July 9
Morocco heads into this crucial battle undefeated: a draw with Brazil, a victory over
the Netherlands in a penalty shootout, and a 3–0 win against Canada after a
lackluster first half. However, the victory over one of the tournament hosts was
marred by a hamstring injury to the team’s leader: further participation of Bayern
newcomer Ismael Saibari is in doubt.
Star-studded France is traditionally a favorite, although it fought hard to beat
Paraguay in the Round of 16. Kylian Mbappé’s penalty decided the match, taking his
tally to seven goals, one behind Lionel Messi.
Meanwhile, France and Morocco clash also has historical significance: it’s a rematch
of the 2022 semifinal, when France won 2-0.
Odds to advance: France – 1.25, Morocco – 3.90.
Spain vs Belgium. July 10
Spain is making history. Luis de la Fuente’s side, always known for its spectacular
attack, hasn’t conceded a single goal at the Globe Cup 2026, extending its clean-sheet
streak at world championships to six in a row. No one has ever achieved this before!
In the Round of 16, Mikel Merino’s late winner in the Iberian derby against Portugal
brought Cristiano Ronaldo’s last dance on football's biggest stage to an end.
Belgium has delivered just as much drama. They came back from 2–0 down against
Senegal in the 86th minute to win 3–2, then followed it up with a statement 4–1 rout
of tournament hosts USA. Even the controversial lifting of Folarin Balogun’s ban did
nothing to help the Americans. Now the Red Devils face a much tougher test.
Odds to advance: Spain – 1.30, Belgium – 3.50.
Norway vs England. July 12
Norway has reached the tournament quarterfinals for the first time in its history,
emerging as the main dark horse. Erling Haaland was the hero, whose brace buried
Brazil’s Neymar hopes. The Viking now has seven goals – only Messi has more.
Is England afraid of sensational Norway? Hardly. For 60 years, it’s been all about
bringing football home. And so far, the Three Lions are doing quite well. Their
thrilling match against Mexico proves that. Thomas Tuchel hopes to deliver England
its long-awaited title, while Harry Kane will go head-to-head with Haaland in the
race for the Golden Boot.
Odds to advance: Norway – 2.75, England – 1.45.
Argentina vs Switzerland. July 12
Argentina was on the brink of elimination against Egypt, trailing 2-0 late on. But
champion mentality and GOAT magic did the job: Messi missed a penalty but still
scored twice to lead a 3-2 comeback.
Switzerland advanced thanks to iron discipline and a victory over Colombia in a
penalty shootout after 120 scoreless minutes. Now Granit Xhaka and company face
the task of stopping perhaps the tournament’s most dangerous attack.
Odds to advance: Argentina – 1.33, Switzerland – 3.30.
The matches to determine the semifinalists are approaching. Follow them with
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