In the first two quarterfinal matches of the 2018 Men’s World Cup on FRI 06 JUL 2018, the remaining non-European teams were eliminated.

• Uruguay 00-02 France: Despite having the better of the early opportunities, Uruguay fell behind to a 40th minute header from Raphaël VARANE. The Charrúas came within inches of equalising shortly afterward, but Martín CÁCERES’s header was palmed away by French keeper Hugo LLORIS. France doubled their lead in the 61st minute on a strike from Antoine GRIEZMANN that slipped past the hands of Fernando MUSLERA. Les Bleus held on for the victory, earning a third trip to the semifinals since the tournament expanded to 32 teams in 1998.
• Brazil 01-02 Belgium: Though Brazil had the first clear look on goal when Thiago SILVA struck the post after a corner, Belgium took control shortly thereafter. A 13th minute corner at the other end deflected in off the shoulder of FERNANDINHO to put the Red Devils ahead. They found another goal from a brilliant counterattack in the 31st, as Romelu LUKAKU made a long run into the opposing half and found Kevin DE BRUYNE for the finish. The Verdeamarelhos’ 27 shot attempts finally began to find the target in the second half, but Belgium keeper Thibaut COURTOIS was up to the task with eight saves. Renato AUGUSTO powered a header past Courtois in the 76th minute, but the Brazilian attack was kept at bay the remainder of the match. Belgium reach the semifinals for the second time in their history, where they will meet France.