World Cup Quarterfinals: Ranking Remaining Teams

The World Cup is nearing its climax with only seven games remaining, or eight if you include the third place matchup. Eight teams are left, each with a shot at glory. Who stands out as the favorite?

Team Rankings for the Quarterfinals

Here’s a ranking of the remaining teams from weakest to strongest based on their performances in the five games they’ve each played.

8. Switzerland

All eight squads have potential, but they rank in tiers. Switzerland is at the bottom tier for me, despite an impressive run. Johan Manzambi has been a key player for them. Their next challenge is Argentina, who struggled against Cape Verde and Egypt. Switzerland’s chances for a semifinal breakthrough are not unimaginable.

7. Belgium

Belgium made headlines with Folarin Balogun’s red card saga and then progressed by eliminating the United States, similar to their performance 12 years ago. This young Belgium squad looks sharper now, although facing Spain poses a tough test. Spain hasn’t conceded a goal yet. Wins over Senegal and the U.S. were significant, but a victory over Spain would mark a milestone for Belgium’s fading golden era.

6. Argentina

Argentina have won all five matches so far, yet their last two victories were narrow against teams they were expected to defeat easily. Lionel Messi continues to shine, scoring crucial goals. Can Messi’s magic lead Argentina to win three more times for ultimate success?

5. Morocco

Morocco’s fate hinges on Ismael Saibari’s fitness. If the Bayern Munich star can’t play against France, it’s a major setback. France, a finalist in recent World Cups, presents a formidable challenge. Morocco’s defense could slow France, and their diverse attackers offer hope even in Saibari’s possible absence.

4. Norway

Norway stands a real chance to reach the World Cup Final. Spain and France are on a different bracket. Argentina appears beatable, while they have favorable odds against Switzerland. The looming challenge is the contest between Erling Haaland and Harry Kane in their quest for the title of the world’s best striker.

3. England

England’s victory over Mexico in Mexico City was a momentous win. Playing with 10 men yet reaching the quarterfinals marks resilience. Norway presents a stronger attacking front than Mexico, but after surviving the Mexico match, England might face less pressure until a potential Final.

2. Spain

Spain’s offense hasn’t reached its peak, but their defense is impeccable. They’ve played five matches without conceding any goals. Their possession-focused strategy thwarts opponents’ scoring chances. If Spain capitalizes on scoring opportunities, only a truly formidable opponent might test them.

1. France

France tops the rankings. Their fearsome attack, featuring Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembele, overshadows any defensive vulnerabilities. Paraguay’s defensive strategy in the Round of 16 highlights France’s attacking potency, evidenced by a penalty goal they scored effortlessly. Defeating France requires exceptional effort.