The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals get underway on Thursday with a highly anticipated clash between France and Morocco, as the tournament enters its decisive stage.   According to AFP, via Channels Television, France face Morocco at Gillette Stadium near Boston in a repeat of their 2022 World Cup semi-final. The French side have been among the standout teams of the tournament and are aiming to move a step closer to another world title. The match also carries added significance for France coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to step down after the tournament, ending a successful 14-year spell in charge. However, the World Cup-winning coach insisted his focus remains solely on overcoming Morocco rather than reflecting on his legacy. Deschamps also brushed aside concerns surrounding the appointment of Argentinian referee Facundo Tello, despite speculation on social media given the possibility of France meeting Argentina in the final. Morocco, under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, have impressed with a balanced blend of technical quality, physical strength and tactical discipline. Deschamps acknowledged the challenge ahead, describing the Atlas Lions as a team capable of matching France in possession, attacking football and goalscoring. The winner of Thursday’s contest will advance to the semi-finals to face either European champions Spain or Belgium, who meet on Friday in Los Angeles. Elsewhere, defending champions Argentina continue their title defence against Switzerland after surviving a dramatic scare against Egypt in the last 16. Lionel Messi inspired a remarkable comeback as Argentina recovered from two goals down to claim a 3-2 victory. The winner of Argentina’s quarter-final will take on either England or Norway. England reached the last eight after defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2, while Norway booked their place thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland in a 2-0 victory over Brazil. The expanded 48-team tournament has produced 280 goals in 96 matches, with only eight nations now remaining in contention for the trophy ahead of the July 19 final in East Rutherford.