2026 World Cup Quarterfinal Odds: Who Will Make the Round of 16??

June 1, 2026 - 23:39

As the 2026 World Cup expands to 48 teams, the path to the knockout stage looks very different from previous tournaments. Instead of the usual 16 teams advancing from the group phase, the new format will see 32 nations move into the Round of 32. From there, winners will battle through a Round of 16 before reaching the quarterfinals. With this expanded structure, oddsmakers have already begun projecting which squads have the best shot at making a deep run.

Traditional powerhouses like Brazil, France, and Argentina are naturally at the top of the list. Brazil, despite recent disappointments, still holds one of the deepest talent pools in the world. France, fresh off strong showings in 2018 and 2022, has a young core that should still be in its prime. Argentina, as the reigning champions, will look to defend their title with Lionel Messi likely playing in his final World Cup. These three teams are widely expected to not only reach the Round of 16 but also push into the quarterfinals.

England and Germany also feature prominently in the odds. England has consistently reached the later stages under Gareth Southgate, and their squad depth remains impressive. Germany, after a few early exits, is rebuilding with a new generation of stars like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. Spain, with its possession-based style and emerging talents, is another strong contender.

Outside of Europe and South America, the usual suspects include Brazil's regional rivals, such as Uruguay and Colombia, who have historically performed well on the global stage. African teams like Senegal and Morocco, the latter of which made a historic semifinal run in 2022, are also seen as capable of reaching the quarterfinals.

The expanded tournament means more games and more chances for surprises. Smaller nations from Asia and North America, including the United States as co-hosts, could benefit from the new format. The U.S. team, with a growing pool of players in top European leagues, is seen as a potential dark horse to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.

Of course, odds are just predictions. The actual tournament will bring injuries, upsets, and moments of brilliance that no betting line can fully capture. But for now, the favorites are clear: the usual giants of the sport, plus a few rising teams ready to make their mark.