In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, two nations have made history, as Norway reaches the quarter-finals for the first time and Morocco qualifies for the second time.
Norway achieved one of the tournament’s major surprises by beating five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16, earning a landmark spot in the quarter-finals.
The win represents the Norwegians’ furthest-ever advancement in the World Cup and extends their impressive journey in the competition.
Morocco marked a significant achievement by sailing to a 3-0 win against Canada in the Round of 16.
The North Africans will now participate in the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time, highlighting their ongoing ascent as one of international football’s rising powers.
Switzerland secured a spot in the quarter-finals after narrowly defeating Colombia in a penalty shootout after a scoreless match.
In contrast to Norway and Morocco, Switzerland is revisiting known ground, as they last made it to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1954.
Now that the quarter-final lineup is set, the tournament showcases a mix of renowned football powerhouses and debut quarter-finalists, with Norway and Morocco standing out as the unexpected contenders.
