The World Cup 2026 round of 16 matches have concluded, but fans face a short wait until the quarter-finals begin. There are no matches scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, as FIFA has designated this day as a rest period for the remaining eight teams.
Why Is There a Break in the Tournament?
This mid-week blank day provides a brief pause in the tournament before the next stage begins. The designated rest day gives the surviving squads essential time to recover from intense knockout matches ahead of the upcoming quarter-final ties. According to FIFA, rest days are built into the schedule to ensure player welfare and maintain competitive integrity.
When Do Matches Resume?
Competitive matches will return on Thursday, July 9, to start the quarter-final round. The opening quarter-final will be contested by France and Morocco. This knockout fixture will be played at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts on Thursday at 9pm UK time.
England’s Quarter-Final Opponent Confirmed
Thomas Tuchel's England also know their quarter-final opponents. They are scheduled to play Norway after a heroic round-of-16 victory. The Three Lions earned their spot in the final eight by beating tournament co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in Mexico City in the early hours of Monday morning for UK viewers. Jude Bellingham scored two early goals to give his side an important advantage. England were forced to play with 10 men after Jarell Quansah received a red card early in the second half, but a penalty from captain Harry Kane eventually secured the narrow win after some late heroic defending.
England vs Norway: Date and Venue
The quarter-final match between England and Norway is set for Saturday, July 11. The game will begin at 10pm UK time and take place at Miami Stadium in Florida. Viewers in the UK can watch the coverage live on ITV1 and stream it on ITVX via their website or app.
What’s Next for the Remaining Teams?
The remaining eight countries will compete for a place in the semi-finals over the days that follow. The World Cup is reaching fever pitch, with fans eagerly awaiting the next stage of the tournament. With no matches on Wednesday, supporters can use the break to plan their viewing schedules for the upcoming quarter-finals.
