World Cup Knockouts Begin
World Cup Quarterfinals Fully Set: Discover All Matchups, Dates, and Times
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The quarterfinals of the 2025 World Cup are set, and the action kicks off this Thursday with a heavyweight clash between France and Morocco. Diario de Mallorca reports that Spain will face Belgium on Friday in what promises to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the round.
Eight teams remain in the tournament. Four matches will decide who reaches the semifinals. Every game is a knockout — one loss and you go home.
France vs. Morocco Opens the Quarterfinal Stage
France and Morocco meet Thursday in the first quarterfinal of the round. It is a rematch with emotional weight — Morocco eliminated Spain in the 2022 World Cup and reached the semifinals, a historic first for an African nation. France are the heavy favorites, led by Kylian Mbappé, but Morocco have shown they can upset anyone, according to Diario Córdoba.
Morocco's defensive record this tournament has been strong. France, however, have scored in every match so far. Expect a tight, tactical battle with very few open chances.
Spain Takes On Belgium in Friday's High-Stakes Clash
Spain face Belgium on Friday in the second quarterfinal of the day. Spain have played attractive, possession-based football throughout the tournament. Belgium, despite being past their so-called "golden generation," still carry quality players like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, El Periódico de Aragón notes.
Spain enter as favorites. Their midfield has controlled games from start to finish. Belgium will need to disrupt Spain's rhythm early or risk being dominated for 90 minutes.
Full Schedule and Remaining Quarterfinal Matchups
All four quarterfinal matches are now confirmed. France vs. Morocco goes Thursday. Spain vs. Belgium follows Friday. The remaining two matchups will also be played across those same days, rounding out a packed schedule, according to Levante EMV and La Provincia.
Winners of each matchup advance directly to the semifinals. There is no extra rest time between rounds for some sides. Fatigue and squad depth will play a major role in who survives.
What Each Team Needs to Reach the Semifinals
France need their defensive line to hold firm against Morocco's fast counter-attacks. Spain need to keep the ball and limit Belgium's transition chances. Both European sides are strong on paper, but World Cup knockout football rarely goes strictly to plan, La Opinión de Murcia points out.
Morocco will look to their passionate fanbase as motivation. Belgium must convert their chances quickly — they cannot afford to let Spain settle. These four matches will define the entire shape of the tournament's final stretch.
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