Throughout the FIFA World Cup, follow along to keep tabs on the top matches to watch throughout the entire tournament, from the group stage all the way to the Final on December 18.
Eight teams remain in contention for the trophy in Qatar. The Round of 16 showed loud and clear who is prepared to compete for the title, with the winning squads outscoring those bested 24-6. Those still alive will all jockey this weekend for a spot in the final four, with the victors guaranteed an additional match come the final and contest for third place in two weeks.
Friday, December 9: Croatia v Brazil
Kickoff: 7:00 AM PT
Venue: Education City Stadium, Doha
Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
2018’s runner-up takes on a perennial favorite, fresh off a confident win to open the knockout stage. Croatia isn’t quite the Cinderella squad they were in the previous tournament; however, they have answered every call so far and done well to navigate the tough moments. But a Brazil side back at full strength will have nothing but the semifinal in their sights, and be primed to put in another dominating performance to back up their #1 world ranking.
Friday, December 9: Netherlands v Argentina
Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT
Venue: Lusail Stadium, Al Dayyen
Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern
Argentina’s stunning defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia to open the tournament is appearing as more of a one-off circumstance each time they take the pitch. Dominating wins over Mexico, Poland, and Australia have reinforced the South American side as a legitimate contender for the title, led by golden goose Lionel Messi in top form. Lining up on the opposite end will be the Dutch, who weathered early strong play from the Americans in the Round of 16 before taking control with strong transition play.
Saturday, December 10: Morocco v Portugal
Kickoff: 7:00 AM PT
Venue: Al Thumama Stadium, Doha
Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
It’s likely Morocco remains the underdog after Portugal scored six goals in its Round of 16 match with Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench. However, it’s probably just where they want to be. Their advance to the Quarterfinal on penalties over Spain leaves them as the tournament darlings – the last underdog remaining – and one of only four squads unbeaten in this year’s tournament. They’re not just playing for their nation, though; as Morocco’s appearance in Saturday’s contest marks just the fourth time an African side has ever reached the Quarterfinals.
Saturday, December 10: England v France
Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT
Venue: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor
Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern
This match puts two rivals in football, politics, geography, and history on the pitch against each other as the headliner of Saturday’s action. European fans can’t ask for much more – especially with how these two teams have played up to this point in the competition. Each attacking unit has dominated thus far – save for England’s scoreless draw with the U.S. – meaning the final contest of the Quarterfinals could end up as either a shootout or a stalemate requiring extra time or composure from 12 yards away. Many likely give the edge to the defending champions, especially with Kylian Mbappe a near shoo-in to find the net.
