Africa’s last chance? Four great stories from the 2026 Globe Cup quarterfinals

The biggest soccer tournament enters its final stretch. Eight of the strongest national teams are competing for the trophy, but for millions of fans in Africa, there is only one question: Can Morocco continue its historic streak?

Following the elimination of Senegal, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Algeria, South Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Atlas Lions remain the continent’s last hope. Four quarterfinal matches await you and each one is worth watching.

France vs Morocco. July 9

Morocco comes into this crucial battle undefeated: a draw with Brazil, a victory over the Netherlands on penalties and a 3-0 victory against Canada after a lackluster first half. However, the victory over one of the tournament hosts was marred by a hamstring injury to the team leader – the future participation of Bayern newcomer Ismael Saibari is in doubt.

Star-studded France are traditionally one of the favourites, although they fought hard to beat Paraguay in the round of 16. Kylian MbappémyThe penalty decided the match, raising his tally to seven goals, one less than Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, the clash between France and Morocco also has historical significance: it is a rematch of the 2022 semi-final, when France won 2-0.

Odds of advancing: France – 1.25, Morocco – 3.90.

Spain vs Belgium. July 10

Spain is making history. Luis de la Fuente’s team, always known for its spectacular attack, has not conceded a single goal in the 2026 World Cup, extending its streak of clean sheets in world championships to six. No one had achieved this before! In the round of 16, Mikel Merino’s late goal in the Iberian derby against Portugal ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s last dance on football’s biggest stage.

Belgium has generated the same drama. They came back from 2-0 down against Senegal in the 86th minute to win 3-2, and then followed up with a spectacular 4-1 rout of the tournament hosts, the United States. Even the controversial lifting of the ban on Folarin Balogun did nothing to help the Americans. Now the Red Devils face a much tougher test.

Odds of advancing: Spain – 1.30, Belgium – 3.50.

Norway vs England. July 12

Norway has reached the quarterfinals of the tournament for the first time in its history, emerging as the main dark horse. Erling Haaland was the hero, whose double buried the Brazilian’s Neymar hopes. Viking now has seven goals, only Messi has more.

Are England afraid of the sensational Norway? Hardly. For 60 years, everything has been about bringing football home. And so far, the Three Lions are doing pretty well. Their exciting match against Mexico proves it. Thomas Tuchel hopes to give England their long-awaited title, while Harry Kane will take on Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot.

Odds of advancing: Norway – 2.75, England – 1.45.

Argentina vs Switzerland. July 12

Argentina was on the brink of elimination against Egypt, losing 2-0 in the end. But the champion mentality and GOAT magic did the job: Messi missed a penalty but still scored twice to lead a 3-2 comeback.

Switzerland advanced thanks to tough discipline and a penalty shootout victory over Colombia after 120 goalless minutes. Now Granit Xhaka and company face the task of stopping perhaps the most dangerous attack of the tournament.

Odds of advancing: Argentina – 1.33, Switzerland – 3.30.

The matches are approaching to determine the semifinalists. Follow them with AfroPari and take advantage of the special World Grand Prize promotion to claim up to 50% guaranteed cashback on the biggest football tournament bets.

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