2026 World Cup quarterfinals will begin soon (Image: Getty)
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What you need to know about why 2026 World Cup matches won’t be played on Wednesday
Climax of the competition: The World Cup is nearing its final stage. But soccer fans will be left with a day of doing nothing after the Round of 16. Wednesday Rest Day: There are no games scheduled for Wednesday, July 8th. This is because this day acts as a day off on the calendar and provides the surviving teams with a chance to rest after a grueling knockout match. Quarterfinal start date: But don’t worry. Competitive soccer returns on Thursday, July 9th when the quarter-final stage begins. The final eight nations will battle it out over the next few days for a spot in the semi-finals. Match Details: France and Morocco will battle for the first draw of the quarter-finals. The match will take place at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts and is scheduled to start at 9pm UK time. England’s opponents confirmed: Thomas Tuchel’s England squad also knows who they will face in the next round. The Three Lions will take on Norway after a dramatic victory in the round of 16. Five-goal thriller: England beat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in Mexico City to secure a place in the quarter-finals. Jude Bellingham gave them a decisive advantage with two early goals. Overcoming disciplinary setbacks: England played most of the second half with 10 points following Jarrell Quansah’s red card. After some intense defending, Harry Kane’s penalty ultimately sealed the victory. Weekend schedule: England vs. Norway quarter-finals set for Saturday 11th July. Kick-off for this match is set for 10pm UK time. Location and Broadcast: This weekend’s game will be held at Miami Stadium in Florida. Fans in the UK can watch live on ITV1 or stream the match via the ITVX app and website. Read more: Why England’s victory over Mexico was the Three Lions’ biggest World Cup victory since 1966
