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With the 2026 FIFA World Cup down to its final eight teams after 96 matches, football statistics firm Opta has released its latest supercomputer predictions ahead of the quarter-finals, which begin after a one-day break.
According to the Opta supercomputer, France are the strongest favourites to reach the semi-finals, with a 73.88 per cent chance of beating Morocco, whose chances stand at 26.12 per cent.
Spain are also heavily favoured, with a 69.70 per cent probability of defeating Belgium, while Belgium have a 30.30 per cent chance of progressing.
The clash between Norway and England is expected to be more closely contested, although England remain favourites with a 62.35 per cent chance of reaching the semi-finals, compared with 37.65 per cent for Norway.
Defending champions Argentina are also backed to advance. Lionel Messi’s side have a 69.13 per cent chance of beating Switzerland, whose probability of reaching the last four is 30.87 per cent.
Despite the statistical projections, Opta noted that performances on the pitch ultimately determine the outcome, and whether the supercomputer’s predictions prove accurate will be decided in the quarter-final matches.
