And only eight remain. Oh, how the World Cup has flown by. With the blink of an eye, we are already in the quarterfinals. While the Round of 32 had some disappointing, and boring to say the least, matchups, the Round of 16 was full of drama and insane fixtures. Let’s hope it only gets better from here.

We’re moving back to our Champions League Fantasy picks format from the quarterfinals onwards, as we’ll be dissecting each match instead of offering the traditional 11 picks. Four matches, eight teams, some quality analysis, and Fantasy recommendations. Let’s get into it.

France vs Morocco

What an opening fixture to kickstart the quarterfinals. A repeat of the 2022 semis and two teams playing brilliant football. The biggest difference between France vs Morocco this year and four years ago is that France is a lot better… and so is Morocco. As a matter of fact, both teams have improved drastically, as Morocco’s play style differs greatly from their defensive approach in Qatar. At the same time, France’s firepower in attack has also only escalated to insane extents. Both teams have had comfortable paths to this point, with Morocco struggling a bit in the first half against Canada, despite most people predicting a relatively easy win. On the other hand, a Moroccan “struggle” ends in a 0-3 victory, which accurately reflects the level of Mohamed Ouahbi’s side. France are just France, with 15 goals scored in five matches. They are marching firmly to their third consecutive World Cup final.

The Fantasy picks here are obvious. Close your eyes and pick a French attacking player; he’ll probably create something. However, if you are looking for a niche player, don’t sleep on Ayyoub Bouaddi, France’s former U21 captain having a fantastic tournament for Morocco, dictating the tempo and sweeping all duels. He will be fired up for this one, that’s for sure.

Spain vs Belgium

If France vs Morocco is a clash of power and intensity, then Spain vs Belgium is a battle of control and creativity. While La Roja has not played the exciting football that we would have hoped, Spain have arguably been the most convincing team at the tournament, dominating possession in every match while dismantling opponents with their trademark passing football. Belgium, however, have quietly built momentum, dispatching both Senegal and the USA while showing they’re much more than just an ageing team that’s past its peak. It took serious character to come back from 0-2 against Senegal, and especially what followed with the US and all the drama surrounding Balogun.

From a Fantasy perspective, Spain are difficult to ignore. Their fluid attacking system creates chances from all areas of the pitch, making almost every forward or advanced midfielder a viable option. Belgium, on the other hand, offer excellent differential potential. While most managers will naturally gravitate towards Spanish assets, backing one of Belgium’s attacking players could be the move that separates your team from the rest if they manage to punish Spain on the counter. But, like France is France, Spain is Spain. Belgium had their fun, nobody expected them to even be here after going two nil down to Senegal, and now, for the second try, it’s time for Lamine Yamal to show up in all of his glory.

Norway vs England

On paper, England should have enough quality to reach the semifinals. In reality, though, this has all the makings of a classic England slip-up. “It’s the history of England”… Norway have looked disciplined throughout the tournament, but when you have Erling Haaland leading the line, discipline is only part of the story. The Norwegian captain has been ruthless in front of goal, already scoring seven goals at this World Cup, and every defence knows that one lapse in concentration is all he needs. In fact, he doesn’t even need a lapse in concentration; he literally does not need anything in his favour. He’ll find a way, that’s for sure.

For Fantasy managers, the obvious temptation is to back England’s attacking stars, but don’t overlook Haaland. If Norway are to pull off the upset, chances are he’ll be at the heart of it. And if he does send England home, this quarterfinal could instantly earn “football heritage” status. England have too often fallen short in matches they were expected to win, and another famous knockout exit would only add to that story. Haaland masterclass incoming, 2-1 for Norway!

Argentina vs Switzerland

This feels like the biggest mismatch on paper, but Argentina have done their best to convince everyone otherwise. The reigning world champions needed a late comeback against Egypt after also being pushed all the way by Cape Verde in the previous round. They have survived every test so far, but Switzerland won’t be intimidated after reaching their first World Cup quarterfinal in 72 years, and seeing Argentina’s recent form.

From a Fantasy perspective, Lionel Messi is impossible to ignore. The Argentine captain has already scored eight goals at this World Cup and continues to deliver whenever his side needs him most. He is quite literally Argentina’s only man capable of scoring, and La Albiceleste really look like a one-man team at this World Cup.