World Cup Confirms 4 Quarterfinalists as Final 4 Round-of-16 Matches Loom

Q: Can Cristiano Ronaldo overcome Spain's record-breaking defense in his potential final World Cup?

Yes—but only if Portugal can create the kind of chances Spain have barely allowed all tournament. Spain enter Monday’s Round of 16 against Portugal in Dallas as one of the strongest defensive teams left. They are on a long unbeaten run, have not conceded a World Cup goal since Qatar 2022, and reports around the tournament credit goalkeeper Unai Simón with a record scoreless streak. Spain’s back line, protected by Rodri and backed by heavy possession, has given opponents very little space or time. That makes this a severe test for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is likely playing in his final World Cup. The 41-year-old still has a history of delivering against Spain: he scored a hat trick against them at the 2018 World Cup and netted again in the recent UEFA Nations League final, which Portugal eventually won on penalties. Across his career, he has shown he can punish Spain even when they control long stretches of the match. Portugal’s best route is unlikely to be sustained dominance. It is more likely to come through quick transitions, set pieces, and Ronaldo’s finishing in the box. Spain’s high line and attacking full-backs can leave space behind, and Portugal have enough pace and aerial threat to test that. Spain remain the favorites because of their structure, form, and defensive record. But Ronaldo does not need many chances to change a knockout match, and his track record against Spain means Portugal cannot be dismissed.

3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jul 6

Four teams — Morocco, France, Norway and England — have secured World Cup quarterfinal places as the 48-team tournament enters its fourth week in North America.
France will face Morocco on July 9 in Boston, while Norway meet England on July 11 in Miami after both pairs advanced from the round of 16.
Four last-16 matches still remain: Portugal vs Spain and USA vs Belgium on July 6, followed by Switzerland vs Colombia and Argentina vs Egypt on July 7.
Those results will complete the other quarterfinals — set for July 10 in Los Angeles and July 12 in Kansas City — with the winners filling the final four spots.