2026 World Cup: 17 Players Face Semi-final Suspension Risk Ahead Of Quarter-finals

Seventeen players will head into the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup knowing another yellow card could end their hopes of featuring in a possible semi-final.

Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, any player who collects a second booking of the tournament during the quarter-finals will be suspended for the last four if their team progresses.

The list grew after the Round of 16 concluded on Tuesday, with 17 players picking up yellow cards that left them walking a disciplinary tightrope.

Morocco have the biggest concern, with four players at risk of suspension. Issa Diop, Achraf Hakimi, Redouane Halhal and Bilal El Khannouss must all avoid another caution to remain available.

England also have four players in the same position. Jude Bellingham, Nico O’Reilly, Declan Rice and Marc Guehi are all one booking away from missing a potential semi-final.

The Three Lions will also be without Jarell Quansah for Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway after the defender was sent off in England’s dramatic 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16.

France could also be affected, with Manu Kone and Michael Olise both carrying one yellow card into the last eight.

Switzerland’s Granit Xhaka, Denis Zakaria and Miro Muheim are also at risk, while Spain forward Ferran Torres, Norway winger Antonio Nusa, Belgium defender Brandon Mechele and Argentina full-back Gonzalo Montiel complete the list.

All 17 players must come through the quarter-finals without another booking if they are to remain eligible for a potential semi-final appearance.