Just eight teams remain in the World Cup — 40 have been eliminated on the way to the quarterfinals, including all three of the host nations.
The United States’ run ended Monday with a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Belgium in Seattle, but many fans say their interest in the tournament did not end with their team’s elimination. Supporters from around the world are embracing new favorites to cheer for through the final stages of the World Cup.
Enrique Zarate, whose native Mexico was eliminated earlier just before the U.S., shifted his support to France. He said Kylian Mbappé is one of his favorite players and he believes France has the talent to win the World Cup.
Martina Vega, of Ecuador, backed Argentina, because she admires the team’s style of play: “They play as a team, not an individual, and their fans are definitely a great fan base.”
Morocco is one of the only two non-European fans left, along with Argentina, and supporter Sabrina Marmucha welcomes fans looking for a new team to follow.
“We want everyone to join,” Marmucha said. “We love culture. We love diversity. We want to bring as many people as we can to the cup.”
American fan Rith Nou said he shifted his support to Norway after the U.S. was eliminated. He also hopes hosting the World Cup will inspire more young athletes to play soccer and help grow the sport in the United States.
As the tournament moves into the quarterfinals — starting with France vs. Morocco at Boston Stadium on Thursday — many fans said the World Cup remains about more than national pride. They plan to keep watching and support the teams and players that continue to capture their attention.
Who’s left in the 2026 World Cup?
France: Top scorer — Kylian Mbappe, best finish — champions
Morocco: Top scorer — Ismael Saibari, best finish — fourth place
Norway: Top scorer — Erling Haaland, best finish — this year
England: Top scorer — Harry Kane, best finish — champions
Spain: Top scorer — Mikel Oyarzabal, best finish — champions
Belgium: Top scorer — Romelu Lukaku, best finish — third place
Argentina: Top scorer — Lionel Messi, best finish — champions
Switzerland: Top scorer — Johan Manzambi, best finish — quarterfinals
More World Cup news
Source: News – Boston – necn
