The 2026 World Cup has reached its decisive phase with 22 Serie A players still chasing the trophy. While pre-tournament favourites France and Argentina dominate the betting markets, surprise packages Norway and Morocco continue to defy expectations heading into the last eight.
Early exits for heavyweight nations
Several high-profile nations featuring Italian-based stars have already departed. Turkey, who featured Juventus youngster Kenan Yıldız, fell at the group stage alongside Brazil. The Seleção squad included Atalanta’s Éderson and Juventus defender Bremer. Former champions Germany and the Netherlands also failed to advance, thinning the field of traditional powers.
Quarter-final match-ups
The remaining eight nations face off in compelling ties. France meet Morocco in a clash that pits European pedigree against African resilience, while Spain take on a transitional Belgium side. In the other half of the draw, tournament surprise Norway face England, and Argentina confront a disciplined Switzerland.
The fixtures present starkly different challenges for the Serie A contingent. Belgium and Norway each boast five Italian-based players, offering significant representation in the knock-out rounds. Switzerland also feature Serie A talent, including Johan Manzambi, though the attacker faces fitness concerns ahead of the Argentina test.
The favourites and the outsiders
France enter their clash with Morocco as the bookmakers’ clear choice at odds of 2.87, having impressed in victories over Sweden and Paraguay. Argentina stand at 5.00 despite stuttering past Cape Verde and Egypt in previous rounds. Lionel Messi’s form remains central to their hopes.
Norway’s remarkable run, powered by Erling Haaland and their five Serie A professionals, has lifted them to 17.00 in the betting. Their free-scoring approach poses a genuine threat to England. Morocco, Africa’s last representatives, face a stern examination against France but carry the momentum of their giant-killing campaign.
Belgium, priced at 34.00, must overcome Spain and potentially France to reach the final—a daunting path for a squad in transition. For the 22 remaining Serie A players, the next week offers a chance to secure club football’s ultimate bragging right.