Six European nations reach World Cup quarter-finals in North America
Six European nations have secured their places in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals in North America, defying historical struggles to dominate the tournament’s latter stages.
England, France, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland and Norway have all progressed to the last eight of the global competition.
They are joined in the quarter-final line-up by South American champions Argentina and African trailblazers Morocco.
Historically, European teams have struggled to impose themselves at tournaments held outside their home continent.
Only twice since the inaugural competition in 1930 have they lifted the trophy in a different region, following triumphs for Spain in South Africa and Germany in Brazil.
Overcoming early hurdles
The continent’s representatives initially endured a sluggish start to the expanded 48-team competition.
Seven of the first 10 European sides failed to win their opening group matches amidst challenging North American weather conditions.
Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin dismissed the sweltering heat as an excuse, instead blaming his squad’s wastefulness in front of goal.
Despite these early setbacks, European teams eventually found their rhythm to register 17 group-stage victories against non-European opposition.
England and France impress in knockouts
The knockout stages have seen several European heavyweights overcome significant adversity.
The Three Lions produced a resilient display to defeat Mexico in the last 16, battling both high altitude and a fiercely hostile crowd at the Azteca Stadium.
“This has shown we have a team capable of winning the World Cup.”
Former England striker Wayne Rooney told BBC Sport.
France successfully navigated Paraguay’s physical approach to secure their progression to the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils silenced an expectant home crowd by eliminating co-hosts the USA.
Belgium will now face the reigning European champions Spain for a coveted place in the semi-finals.
“They are going to need to be good against what is a brilliant Spanish midfield.”
Former England defender Matt Upson said on BBC One.
Expanded format favours traditional powers
Europe was always mathematically favoured to have a strong presence in the latter stages of the competition.
The continent is awarded 16 qualification spots for the tournament, providing a significant numerical advantage.
However, successfully navigating an extra knockout round proves the enduring quality of European football on the world stage.