France's record in FIFA World Cup quarter-finals: Wins, losses and complete history

France are set to make their ninth quarter-final appearance.

France are widely regarded as one of the biggest footballing nations, known for their ability to produce exceptional moments in the tournament, with the nation securing two titles so far.

In the long history of the competition, Les Bleus have cemented their status as perennial heavyweights, possessing immense experience that allows them to consistently achieve results in the knockout stages of the tournament.

France entered the competition after brilliant outings in the previous two editions are aiming to reclaim the title after eight years. Led by manager Didier Deschamps, France had a great start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage campaign, advancing as group leaders of Group I.

They carried the same form into the knockout rounds, with France first securing a comfortable 3-0 win against Sweden in the Round of 32, before earning a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay’s low block in the Round of 16.

They are now set to face Morocco in the quarter-finals, with both nations set to meet at the tournament after four years, with France beating Morocco 2-0 in their last meeting at the FIFA World Cup 2022 semi-finals.

France’s Record in World Cup Quarter Finals

• Appearances: 8
• Wins: 6
• Defeats: 2

1. 1938: Italy 3-1 France

Hosting the third edition of the World Cup, France faced an immense challenge as they went up against the defending champions, Italy, managed by the legendary Vittorio Pozzo. Despite the massive home support, Les Bleus failed to control the game, ultimately losing 3-1.

2. 1958: France 4-0 Northern Ireland

The 1958 quarter-final clash between France and Northern Ireland became famous for the legendary performances of Just Fontaine. Displaying relentless attacking prowess, France completely cruised through Northern Ireland’s defence.

3. 1986: France 1-1 Brazil (4-3 on penalties)

The clash between two footballing powerhouses produced a result that will be cherished for a long time. After Careca opened the scoring for Brazil, Platini slotted a brilliant equaliser in the 41st minute. The scoreline remained the same all the way until the extra time. France ultimately kept their nerve, securing a historic 4-3 win.

4. 1998: France 0-0 Italy (4-3 on penalties)

Didier Deschamps-led France played in a rivalry renewal fixture against Italy, with the quarter-final clash ironically hosted by France. Despite the hype around the game, the match finished in a lacklustre draw, moving to penalties. France sealed the victory after Italy’s Luigi Di Biagio’s shot struck the crossbar, with the game fueling France’s run to their first-ever World Cup title.

5. 2006: France 1-0 Brazil

Zinedine Zidane put on an absolute masterclass that still remains one of the best individual World Cup performances for France. He dictated the tempo of the game from midfield and effortlessly dribbled past Brazil’s defensive line. Zidane orchestrated the attack, provided a free-kick assist for Thierry Henry, who struck a clinical back-post volley in the 57th minute, with the side subsequently eliminating the defending champions.

6. 2014: Germany 1-0 France

In a highly anticipated European heavyweight clash at the iconic Maracanã Stadium, a young, developing French squad faced an in-form Germany. A powerful, early header from Mats Hummels in the 13th minute gave the Germans an early lead. Despite massive efforts by France, this was the only goal scored in the game, confirming France’s exit against the eventual world champions.

7. 2018: France 2-0 Uruguay

France comfortably cruised past Uruguay’s highly physical defensive low block and intense pressing to continue their monumental run. A clinical header from Raphaël Varane just before halftime opened the scoring, with Antoine Griezmann’s long-range strike in the 61st minute confirming France’s passage, with the team advancing all the way to lift the title.

8. 2022: France 2-1 England

France displayed immense experience in the tournament to defeat the heavyweights, England. Aurélien Tchouaméni opened the scoring with an unbelievable long-range strike in the 17th minute. England then equalised through a Harry Kane penalty in the 54th minute.

Olivier Giroud recovered the lead with a brilliant header in the 78th minute. Kane had a chance to equalise from the spot; however, he sent his kick over the bar, earning France’s first consecutive quarter-final victories.

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