World Cup quarter-finals: Statistical strengths of the eight remaining teams

With the World Cup quarter-finals set, Opta's data highlights the unique statistical advantages each of the eight remaining teams possesses. From France's prolific ball carries to Spain's imperious defence, the numbers paint a clear picture of how these sides have reached this stage.

Key statistical edges

France lead the tournament in productive ball carries of at least five metres that end in a shot or chance created. Nine players have recorded at least four such carries, including Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise. Morocco, meanwhile, have logged the most sprints among the quarter-finalists, with the highest sprint-per-distance ratio, suggesting intense physical output.

Spain's average possession mirrors their 2012 Euro-winning side, and they have conceded the lowest expected goals (xG) of any team still alive. They also lead the tournament in high turnovers—open-play sequences started within 40 metres of the opposition goal—with 50 such sequences. Belgium are second in high turnovers but first in converting them into shots (15) and goals (four).

• France: nine players with at least four productive ball carries
• Morocco: highest sprint total and sprint-per-distance ratio among quarter-finalists
• Spain: lowest expected goals conceded; dominant possession and high turnovers (50)
• Belgium: most high-turnover shots (15) and goals (4) in the tournament
• Argentina and England also feature strong underlying numbers, with England taking six shots against Mexico (five on target, three goals)

What’s next

As the quarter-finals approach, these statistical profiles could prove decisive. France's ball-carrying threat meets Morocco's high-intensity sprints, while Spain's possession game will be tested by Belgium's ability to force high-turnover chances. The data suggests tight contests where small margins—and individual brilliance—could determine the semi-finalists.