The 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico has advanced to the quarterfinal stage, and after nearly a month of matches, the title contenders have officially emerged. Surprisingly, the three host nations—USA, Canada, and Mexico—were all eliminated in the Round of 16, failing to capitalize on home advantage. In contrast, European teams have dominated this tournament, securing six of the eight quarterfinal spots, with the remaining two taken by defending champions Argentina and North African powerhouse Morocco.

2026 World Cup Quarterfinalists Revealed! Opta Predicts France Has Highest Title Probability, Led by Mbappe's 5-Game Winning Streak

According to simulation results from data analytics firm Opta using supercomputers, France, led by Kylian Mbappé, currently has the highest title probability at 27.62%, followed closely by Spain and England. France has reached the final in the past two World Cups and has won all five matches from the group stage onward in this edition. Their complete squad depth and strong bench make them the most favored team at this stage.

France's quarterfinal opponent is Morocco. The two teams previously met at the World Cup four years ago, with France emerging victorious. Morocco advanced by defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32, then beat host nation Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. Whether France can extend their winning streak or Morocco can exact revenge will be one of the key storylines of the quarterfinals.

Currently, France, led by Kylian Mbappé, has the highest title probability at 27.62%. (AP)

Spain Ranks Second in Title Probability, Sets Record with 6 Consecutive Clean Sheets

Spain ranks second with a 21.54% title probability. After defeating Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16, Spain has now gone six consecutive matches without conceding a goal, setting a historic first in World Cup history. While previously known for ball control and passing, Spain's defensive stability this tournament has been equally impressive, serving as a key factor in their progression.

Spain's next match is against Belgium. Belgium previously completed a comeback from a two-goal deficit in the knockout stage, demonstrating their ability to change the game's momentum under pressure. Whether Belgium can break through Spain's yet-undefeated defense will determine the outcome of this all-European clash.

England Ranks Third in Title Probability, Kane and Bellingham to Face Haaland

England ranks third with a 17.06% title probability. In their Round of 16 match against Mexico, they played with one fewer player for part of the game but still managed to narrowly eliminate their opponent and secure a quarterfinal berth. England will now face Norway, led by Erling Haaland. The on-field clash between star players Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Haaland has drawn significant attention.

Norway is one of the most notable teams in this year's quarterfinals, with Opta estimating their title probability at 6.5%, ranking fifth. Whether Norway can continue their underdog run against a more complete England squad will be a major highlight of the match.

England ranks third with a 17.06% title probability. (AP)

Argentina Beats Egypt 3-2 in Comeback, Messi Leads Defending Champions to Quarterfinals

The defending champions Argentina advanced in a more dramatic fashion. They faced strong resistance from Egypt in the Round of 16 but ultimately won 3-2 thanks to Lionel Messi's crucial performance. Argentina's current title probability stands at 15.93%, ranking fourth among the eight teams.

Looking at the knockout bracket, Argentina is in a different half from France and Spain, meaning they won't face either team before the final. Argentina's quarterfinal opponent is Switzerland, who have reached the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, ending a 72-year drought. Switzerland currently has a 3.46% title probability, the lowest among the eight teams, but their advancement demonstrates their ability to compete with top-tier teams.

They faced fierce resistance from Egypt in the Round of 16 but ultimately won 3-2 thanks to Lionel Messi's crucial performance. (AP)

World Cup Title Probability Rankings Revealed: France, Spain, and England Are Most Favored

Among the remaining teams, Morocco ranks sixth with a 4.04% title probability, while Belgium ranks seventh at 3.86%. Overall, France, Spain, England, and Argentina remain the four teams most favored by data analytics.

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR Times
  • Category: News
  • Organizations: Opta
  • Dates in source: 2026