Прогнозы на четвертьфиналы ЧМ 2026

Eight teams. Four matches. Each one a potential classic. The World Cup 2026 quarter-finals represent the point at which the tournament truly separates the pretenders from the genuine contenders. By this stage, nobody is here by accident — every squad that has reached the last eight has beaten real opposition under real pressure. So when we try to predict what happens next, we do so with respect for every team still standing, and a healthy dose of uncertainty about what knockout football at this level can produce.

Brazil vs France — The Clash Everyone Wanted

If the draw gods had any sense of theatre, they delivered it here. Brazil, playing with a freedom and attacking verve not seen since their best days under Scolari, carry genuine momentum through the knockout rounds. Vinicius Jr. has been electrifying — his pace on the left side is the single most dangerous individual weapon in the tournament. France, however, have a habit of playing their best football precisely when the stakes are highest. Kylian Mbappé's movement between lines has caused every defensive system he has faced significant problems. This one is genuinely too close to call, but Brazil's attacking depth gives them a fractional edge. Prediction: Brazil, 2-1 after extra time.

England vs Spain — European Heavyweights Collide

England have quietly been one of the most efficient teams at this tournament. They have not always been beautiful, but they have been effective — winning games by a single goal, grinding through adversity, showing a mental resilience that has historically eluded English squads. Spain, meanwhile, have been the most aesthetically pleasing side in North America, their positional play and pressing combination producing football that evokes the great 2010 vintage. The key battle is England's midfield against Spain's pressing trap. If England can bypass the press and find their wide forwards in space, they have the tools to win. But Spain's experience in these situations is significant. Prediction: Spain, 1-0.

Germany vs Argentina — A Classic Rivalry Renewed

Few fixtures in World Cup history carry more baggage than Germany against Argentina. Four World Cup finals, multiple iconic moments, a rivalry defined by tight margins and enormous personalities. In 2026, Germany look organized, physical, and ruthlessly efficient — the classic German virtues applied through a modern pressing framework. Argentina, defending champions, are riding a wave of collective belief that is almost tangible. Their second and third tier players have stepped up brilliantly when called upon. This has all the hallmarks of going to penalties. Prediction: Argentina on penalties.

Portugal vs Japan — The Dark Horse Fixture

Japan's presence in the quarter-finals has been one of the stories of the tournament. Their disciplined defensive structure, lightning-fast transitions, and extraordinary team spirit have made them a nightmare opponent for teams that expect to dominate possession. Portugal, with Ronaldo's successor generation finally stepping forward, have quality throughout the squad. Bruno Fernandes has been exceptional, controlling matches with an intelligence and range of passing that belongs at the very highest level. Japan will make this uncomfortable, but Portugal's individual quality over 90 minutes should prevail. Prediction: Portugal, 2-1.

All four quarter-finals promise genuine drama, last-minute tension, and the kind of football that reminds you why this tournament matters more than any other. Watch every moment live as it happens on WatchLiveMatch.tv — the quarter-finals begin and you do not want to miss a second of it.