Power ranking the 8 remaining teams at the 2026 World Cup

Power ranking the 8 remaining teams at the 2026 World Cup ranks Switzerland and Belgium among the quarterfinal contenders based on tournament form and squad depth. Switzerland, portrayed as lacking star power, entered the knockouts after topping their group with seven points and beating Algeria convincingly, but they were less effective in a 0-0 draw with Colombia before advancing on penalties. Despite a poor overall head-to-head record versus Argentina—five losses and two draws in seven matches, including defeats in 1966 and 2014—the article argues Switzerland’s defensive discipline has upset major teams, referencing their eliminations of France and Italy in the last two Euros. Belgium is rated as an unlikely quarterfinalist, having drawn 1-1 with Egypt and 0-0 with Iran before beating New Zealand 5-1. The piece credits coach Rudi Garcia for rotating stars, and notes Romelu Lukaku remains their top scorer in the tournament with three goals, even with limited starts.