Quarterfinal Round Preview
With 40 teams eliminated, the remaining eight are still vying for the championship title. As the tournament progresses, predicting the outcome becomes increasingly challenging, and surprises are likely to occur.
Team Analysis
Under head coach Rudi Garcia, Belgium has been gaining momentum despite a slow start. The team's experienced starting lineup has been using its wisdom to its advantage, as seen in their match against the U.S. However, age might eventually become a factor, and competing against Spain's midfield, including Pedri and Rodri, will be a significant challenge.
Switzerland has demonstrated exceptional defensive discipline, as evident in their shootout win over Colombia. Coach Murat Yakin has built a smart and compact team that knows when to attack. Nevertheless, defending against Argentina will be a tougher task, and the injury to Johan Manzambi is a significant concern.
Morocco has been improving since their semifinal appearance in Qatar four years ago. The team boasts an elite right side with Brahim Díaz and Achraf Hakimi, and central midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi is one of the best teenagers in the world. However, Morocco will face France without their top forward, Ismael Saibari, due to injury.
Norway is being carried by Erling Haaland, who has seven goals in four appearances. The team's supporting cast, including Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa, has also been impressive. Nevertheless, Norway's depth is a concern, and if Haaland or Ødegaard has a bad game, it is uncertain whether the team's other options can fill the gap.
Harry Kane has been living up to expectations with six goals, and England's offense is building momentum with Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon improving. However, the team's defense has been leaky at times, and it is uncertain whether they can hold up against better opponents.
Argentina knows how to win and has been fighting hard, as seen in their win over Egypt. The team has the greatest player of all time in Lionel Messi, who can win games single-handedly. However, the team's age is a concern, and they are still heavily reliant on Messi, who is now 39 years old.
Spain's defense has been impenetrable, conceding zero goals in five games. The team has a balanced attack with multiple players scoring, and their central midfield tandem of Rodri and Pedri is arguably the best. However, Spain has been walking a fine line, and it is uncertain whether Mikel Oyarzabal can carry the team in the same way as other top forwards.
France has the most talented team in the tournament, with their top-three players in fantastic form. Kylian Mbappé has seven goals, Michael Olise has been an excellent playmaker, and Ousmane Dembélé has scored four goals. However, managing the team's massive egos will be a challenge, as Frank Lebouef noted: "I would say that the best enemy of France is France itself. Again, if you don't find the chemistry, if you have ego issues between the players, they're not going to win anything. And when we are the favorites, it's never good with France."
