As the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its final stages, the remaining teams are shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle. With three-quarters of the quarter-finalists from Europe, the tournament is set to be a battle of skill, strategy, and determination. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders and their prospects.
France: The Undisputed Favorites
France, led by the formidable Kylian Mbappé and the creative Michael Olise, remains the clear favorite to lift the trophy. Their attacking prowess is evident, with Mbappé hot on the heels of Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race and Olise leading the assists chart. Despite a stubborn Paraguay side nullifying their usual dominance in the last 16, France's talent and experience make them a force to be reckoned with. The 28% chance forecasted by The Athletic's projection tool further solidifies their status as the tournament's top contenders.
Spain: Depth and Resilience
Spain, another European powerhouse, has demonstrated depth and resilience in this tournament. After a strong group stage, they limited Portugal to few chances and secured a win thanks to Mikel Merino's last-gasp goal. The absence of their star player, Lamine Yamal, from his usual heights is intriguing, but the team's strength in depth is evident in Ferran Torres' and Merino's combination play. Their upcoming quarter-final against Belgium will be a test of their ability to adapt and overcome.
Argentina: Character and Consistency
Argentina, the defending champions, has shown both character and consistency in their knockout games. Despite a back-and-forth match against Egypt, they produced a remarkable turnaround from 2-0 down to win. This resilience is a testament to their strength of character and will to win. However, the question remains: how much have these two matches taken out of them? Their upcoming quarter-final against Switzerland will be a challenge, as the Swiss have proven themselves to be a formidable side.
Switzerland: Underdogs with a Chance
Switzerland, the surprise package of the tournament, has avoided one of the more fancied teams in the quarter-finals, keeping them above England in these rankings. Their ability to prevail on penalties against Colombia, a repeat of the 2024 Copa America final, showcases their resilience and determination. While they may be considered underdogs, their performance and tactical discipline make them a serious contender for a place in the semi-finals.
As the tournament progresses, the remaining teams will face challenges and opportunities, testing their skills, tactics, and mental fortitude. The quarter-finals promise to be a thrilling showcase of football, with the potential for upsets and surprises. The battle for the World Cup title is far from over, and the excitement is only just beginning.
