The Road to the Quarter‑Finals
The United States saw its World Cup campaign end at the last 16, succumbing to a 1‑0 defeat against Belgium. The result marked the conclusion of a tournament that had already delivered dramatic moments, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s final appearance on the world stage after Portugal’s loss to Spain.
Lionel Messi, now level with Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland at seven goals, eyes a second World Cup triumph. Mbappé, the French forward, sits atop the Golden Boot race alongside Messi and Haaland, while Michael Olise leads the assists chart with five.
Golden Boot Contenders and Emerging Stars
France remains the clear favorite, projected at a 31 % chance of lifting the trophy according to The Athletic’s model. Coach Didier Deschamps’ side boasts depth, but Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal has yet to reach the heights expected of him. Argentina, after a gritty 3‑2 extra‑time victory over Cape Verde, advances to the last 16 and will meet Egypt, while Spain prepares to face Belgium.
The quarter‑final lineup now takes shape: Argentina versus Egypt and Spain against Belgium. With Messi’s experience and Mbappé’s pace, the tournament promises more twists before the final.