2026 FIFA World Cup: France lead rankings as quarterfinal lineup is set

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final eight, with the tournament entering its decisive phase as heavyweight contenders, surprise packages and historic underdogs battle for a place in the semifinals.

France remain the team to beat after edging Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16, with Kylian Mbappé’s second-half penalty sealing victory. Although Didier Deschamps’ side was tested, they retained the top spot in FIFA’s latest tournament power rankings.

Defending champions Argentina continue to rank second despite surviving a major scare against Egypt, rallying from 2-0 down to keep their title defence alive after cruising through the group stage.

Spain have climbed to third after gathering momentum in the knockout rounds, while England sit fourth following another gritty display under pressure.

Morocco’s dream run continues as the Atlas Lions rise to sixth after becoming the first African nation to reach back-to-back World Cup quarterfinals. Belgium occupy eighth, completing a group of six quarterfinalists ranked among the world’s top 10.

The biggest movers are Norway and Switzerland. Norway have surged 12 places to 19th after reaching their first modern-era World Cup quarterfinal, while Switzerland climb five spots to 14th with their deepest World Cup run since 1954.

The quarterfinals begin on July 9, with France facing Morocco in Boston, as the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy enters its most crucial stage.