The Round of 16 is officially over, and it certainly lived up to expectations.
There were standout individual performances, closely contested matches and a few surprise results, while several teams saw their World Cup journey come to an end. For fantasy managers, the tournament has now reached its most important stage.
With only eight teams left, the player pool is much smaller and every transfer carries more importance. The decisions you make now could shape your overall rank and decide the outcome
of your mini leagues.
While a well-timed differential can still make a difference, premium players offer the best combination of consistency, high points potential and reliable captaincy options.
With the deadline approaching, here are the best fantasy assets remaining ahead of the quarter-finals.
Kylian Mbappé (France vs Morocco)
There are no easy matches at this stage of the tournament, but France will go into this game as favourites against a determined Morocco side. Kylian Mbappé has shown throughout the tournament that he can score against any team and remains France’s biggest attacking threat.
The French forward is currently joint top scorer with seven goals and is the favourite to win the Golden Boot. With France among the strongest teams left in the competition, he is once again expected to play a key role.
Mbappé is almost certain to start, should play the full match and also takes penalties, making him one of the best premium picks for the quarter-finals
Lionel Messi (Argentina vs Switzerland)
When it comes to major tournaments, few players have a better record than Lionel Messi. Argentina face a tough test against Switzerland in the quarter-finals, but they have the quality to get through and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Messi continues to be the player everything revolves around for Argentina. He is involved in almost every attack, takes penalties and free kicks, and is always capable of delivering goals or assists. He has also enjoyed another impressive tournament and remains in the race for the Golden Boot.
Harry Kane (England vs Norway)
England have one of the most favourable quarter-final fixtures as they take on Norway. They have been one of the strongest attacking teams in the tournament and will be confident of reaching the semi-finals.
Harry Kane has been outstanding, scoring six goals and putting himself firmly in the race for the Golden Boot. The England captain remains the focal point of his side’s attack and continues to deliver fantasy points through his finishing, link-up play and penalty duties.
With England among the favourites to win the tournament and a good chance of progressing, Kane should be one of the first names in your squad for the quarter-finals.
Ousmane Dembélé (France vs Morocco)
Ousmane Dembélé has been one of France’s standout performers and continues to be an excellent fantasy option. While he may not always play the full 90 minutes, he has consistently shown that he can make a big impact whenever he is on the pitch.
The French winger announced himself with a hat-trick against Norway in the group stage and has also provided two assists, highlighting both his goalscoring and creative ability. Alongside Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise, he has helped form one of the most dangerous attacking units left in the tournament.
With France among the favourites to lift the trophy, owning at least two of their attacking players looks like a smart move. For managers looking to gain ground, Dembélé is also a strong captaincy differential for the quarter-finals.
Erling Haaland (Norway vs England)
Norway faces one of the toughest quarter-final fixtures against England, so not every fantasy manager will consider Erling Haaland. However, players of his quality are always capable of making the difference, regardless of the opposition.
Haaland has already scored seven of Norway’s 11 goals at this World Cup, showing just how important he is to his team. Almost everything good Norway does in attack goes through him, and if Norway are to get a result against England, Haaland is the player most likely to make it happen.
Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain vs Belgium )
Spain have been one of the strongest attacking teams in the tournament, and their central striker has played a big role in that success. Operating as the No. 9, Mikel Oyarzabal has scored four goals and provided one assist, making him one of the most reliable forwards still left in the competition.
He will once again fancy his chances of getting on the scoresheet in the quarter-finals, especially with Spain’s attacking quality creating plenty of opportunities. Despite his consistent returns, he is still owned by relatively few fantasy managers, making him an excellent differential.
If you are looking for a player who can help you climb the rankings while still offering reliable points, Oyarzabal is well worth considering ahead of the quarter-finals.
Jude Bellingham (England vs Norway)
England’s midfield has been driven by Jude Bellingham, who continues to deliver when his team needs him most. His brace against Mexico took his tally to four goals and one assist, underlining the impact he has made at this World Cup.
Bellingham offers plenty of ways to score fantasy points. He makes late runs into the box, creates chances for his teammates and is almost certain to stay on the pitch for the full match, even if it goes to extra time.
With England facing Norway in the quarter-finals, Bellingham is one of the standout premium midfielders to own. His form, attacking threat and secure minutes make him an excellent option for fantasy managers.
