Pick A New Team For The Quarterfinals

Two days after the United States men’s national team slipped past Belgium with a 4‑1 loss, the knockout stage moves on. Fans looking for a fresh club to cheer can pick from eight squads, each with its own narrative. Below are concise reasons to back each remaining side as the quarterfinals get underway.

Why Root for France

Les Bleus are poised for a potential rematch with Argentina, a scenario made realistic by the tournament draw and Argentina’s deep run. Kylian Mbappé’s 2022 World Cup heroics— a hat‑trick that forced extra time and a penalty‑spot goal—earned him the Golden Boot and left him one trophy away from back‑to‑back greatness. The 25‑year‑old striker now shares the tournament’s top scoring spot with Lionel Messi (7 vs 8 goals), giving France extra motivation to capture the title and avenge that historic penalty‑shootout loss.

Spain’s squad blends seasoned veterans with breakthrough youngsters, a mix that has become the tournament’s signature story. Only two starters—30‑year‑old captain Rodri and 32‑year‑old defender Aymeric Laporte—are above 29, while 18‑year‑old winger Lamine Yamal and 19‑year‑old centre‑back Pau Cubarsí provide the future. The balance allows the side to lean on experience when needed and youthful dynamism when the match demands it.

The Red Devils turned a stagnant group stage into momentum by dispatching Senegal in extra time and then crushing the USMNT. After a sluggish draw with Egypt and a goalless match versus Iran, Belgium’s wild overtime win over Senegal marked a genuine breakout. The team has since found cohesion, positioning itself as a dark‑horse that could upset Spain or even reach the final.

The defending champions are led by a near‑40‑year‑old Lionel Messi, who continues to dominate despite his age. Argentina survived a nail‑biter against Cape Verde and escaped a dramatic 3‑2 comeback over Egypt, proving resilience under pressure. Messi’s eighth tournament goal keeps him atop the Golden Boot, and the team’s experience makes them a clear favorite to repeat their 2022 triumph.

Why Root for Switzerland

Algeria and Colombia could not stop the Swiss, who advanced on penalties after a chaotic Colombian shootout. Switzerland’s knockout record had been stagnant since 1954, but two wins in this tournament have broken that stalemate. The Nati’s square flag and disciplined play offer a refreshing contrast to the more flamboyant European sides.

Switzerland stands as the latest obstacle for Argentina and Messi on their title‑defence journey. For fans weary of the Argentine captain or of dynasties, backing the Swiss provides a compelling underdog narrative. If the Nati can hold a lead against the South Americans, the quarterfinals will gain an unexpected twist.

Why Root for Norway

Erling Haaland’s 7 goals this World Cup match the total Norway scored across three previous appearances, and he has netted in every match he played. The 25‑year‑old striker, a 6′5″ giant, delivered two decisive finishes against Brazil, including a perfect low‑driven shot under pressure. Norway’s return to the knockout stage since 1998 feels like a Viking raid, with goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland also earning praise for a crucial penalty save.

England’s World Cup history reads like a cautionary tale— only one triumph in 1966 and two quarterfinal exits that ended in fourth place. The 2026 squad appears ready to rewrite that script, showcasing resilience despite injuries. Jude Bellingham’s two‑minute brace secured a 3‑2 win over Mexico while playing with one man down, exemplifying the team’s fighting spirit.

The Three Lions feature a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising talents. Harry Kane remains in the Golden Boot mix, while Jordan Henderson’s wrist injury adds drama to the tournament’s human story. For fans seeking a historic turnaround, England’s dramatic rise could fulfill the long‑standing “It’s coming home” promise.

Why Root for Morocco

After a string of UEFA victories, Morocco offers a non‑European pulse in the knockout stage. Their efficiency against Canada—three goals from just four shots on target—all arrived in the second half, illustrating tactical patience. Yassine Bono Bounou has been a pillar in goal, keeping the Red Devils in contention.

The quarterfinals feel refreshed with a team that has remained unpredictable. Morocco’s ability to outlast tough opponents over recent years suggests they could continue the surprise factor. For fans fed up with dominant European sides, Morocco presents a fresh narrative and a chance to celebrate a storybook run.

With no clear favorite, the remaining eight squads each bring a distinct flavor to the tournament. Whether you’re drawn to revenge plots, youthful brilliance, resilient underdog tales, or historic rivalries, there is a team that matches your viewing mood. Pick a side, root hard, and enjoy the drama of the World Cup’s next phase.