France's ability to carry the ball forward is unmatched, with 33 carries ending in shots. Opta tracks carries of at least five metres, and nine players have at least four productive carries or chance-creating runs, including Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Kylian Mbappé, and Michael Olise. Bradley Barcola is one carry-powered chance-creating pass away from joining them.
Morocco's Sprint Intensity
Morocco have the highest sprints per kilometre (0.75) among the eight teams, despite playing an extra half-hour. Their intense running, aided by two matches in air-conditioned stadiums, gives them the physicality to challenge France.
Spain's Defensive Solidity
Spain have conceded only 1.49 expected goals (xG), a testament to their possession-based defence. For context, Norway have allowed at least 1.49 xG in four of their five matches. Spain's control mirrors their Euro 2012 form.
Belgium's High Turnovers
Belgium lead in high turnovers leading to shots (15), with four goals from such situations. Spain top the overall high-turnover count (50), but Belgium's efficiency in converting them could pressure Spain's backline into errors.
Norway's Chance Quality
Norway prioritise quality over quantity, with an average xG per shot of 0.17 (excluding penalties), the highest among quarter-finalists. Despite taking only four more shots than Cape Verde, their chance quality is elite.
England's Big Chances
England have created 23 big chances, more than any other team. In their ruthless 3-0 win over Mexico, they scored from two tap-ins and a penalty, all deemed big chances by Opta. Despite earlier profligacy, they lead in golden opportunities.
Argentina's Variety in Attack
Argentina have scored 14 goals, joint-top, with seven coming from counterattacks, set pieces, or penalties. They scored two counterattacking goals against Austria, two free-kicks versus Jordan, and two corners against Cape Verde. Their versatility makes them dangerous.
Switzerland's Direct Speed
Switzerland's direct speed of 1.77 metres per second is the fastest among quarter-finalists, measuring ball movement towards the opponent's goal. Against Argentina's expected possession dominance, Switzerland will need to strike quickly on transitions.
