Spain, Belgium, England and Norway reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Portugal, USA, Mexico and Brazil in thrilling Round of 16 encounters.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 delivered another night of thrilling football as Spain, Belgium, England and Norway secured their places in the quarter-finals with impressive victories over Portugal, the United States, Mexico and Brazil respectively.
Spain 1-0 Portugal (After Extra Time): Merino’s Heroics End Portugal’s Campaign
Spain edged past fierce rivals Portugal 1-0 after extra time in a tense encounter that remained deadlocked throughout the regulation 90 minutes. Both sides enjoyed periods of dominance but struggled to convert their chances against disciplined defensive displays.
With penalties looming, substitute Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s hero by scoring the decisive goal early in extra time. Portugal threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but Spain held firm to seal a memorable victory and progress to the last eight. The defeat also marked the end of Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2026 journey.
Belgium 4-1 USA: Red Devils Too Strong for Co-hosts
Belgium produced one of their best performances of the tournament as they defeated co-hosts USA 4-1 to secure a quarter-final berth.
The Red Devils dominated from the opening whistle with quick passing, clinical finishing and relentless attacking football. Belgium established an early lead and continued to create chances throughout the match. Although the United States managed to pull one goal back, Belgium quickly restored their advantage and comfortably saw out the game.
The convincing victory underlined Belgium’s title ambitions as they set up a blockbuster quarter-final clash against Spain.
England 3-2 Mexico: Three Lions Hold Their Nerve
England survived a spirited challenge from Mexico to claim a thrilling 3-2 victory and continue their World Cup campaign.
The Three Lions made a strong start, controlling possession and taking the lead with confident attacking football. Mexico fought back bravely and remained competitive throughout the contest, but England consistently found answers with their attacking quality.
After extending their lead in the second half, England looked to be cruising before Mexico struck twice to set up a dramatic finale. The closing stages saw relentless Mexican pressure, but England’s defence stood firm to protect the narrow advantage and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Norway 2-1 Brazil: Scandinavian Side Produces Major Upset
Norway stunned five-time world champions Brazil with a remarkable 2-1 comeback victory to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.
Brazil controlled much of the opening stages and deservedly took the lead through their attacking dominance. Norway, however, responded with determination and gradually gained confidence as the match progressed.
The Scandinavian side equalised with a swift counterattack before scoring the decisive goal in the second half to complete one of the biggest surprises of the tournament. Brazil launched a late assault in search of an equaliser, but Norway defended resolutely to seal a famous victory.
Quarter-final Line-up Taking Shape
With these results, Spain, Belgium, England and Norway have all secured their places in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals. Spain will face Belgium in one of the tournament’s biggest encounters, while England and Norway will battle for a place in the semi-finals after both producing impressive Round of 16 performances.
