Five from FC Barcelona in quarter finals
Of the 17 Barça players that went to the Qatar World Cup, 14 progressed to the last sixteen. Following the drama of the last few days, that number has now been reduced to five.
Frenkie and Memphis prepare for Argentina
Frenkie de Jong and Memphis were the first two to qualify after the Dutch saw off the United States 3-1, with Memphis himself scoring one of the goals. Both Barça men played 90 minutes of that game. They now play Leo Messi and Argentina for a place in the semis on Friday.
Dembélé and Kounde eliminate Lewandowski
France continue to be one of the most fancied sides in the competition after they saw off Robert Lewandowski and Poland to the tune of a 3-1 win. So, while one Barça players stepped out of the competition, Dembélé and Kounde are now set to face England in Friday's other semi-final.
Dembélé was on the field for 76 minutes of the last 16 game before being substituted, while Kounde only missed the last few seconds. Lewandowski played the full game and scored a penalty right at the very end.
Brazil thrash South Korea
The five-time champions are also in rampant form and brushed aside the Asians with a 4-1 win. They will now play Croatia on Saturday.
Raphinha had several chances to score, and despite not finding the net himself against South Korea, he did give one assists and is a fundamental part of the Brazilian attack.
Spain out on penalties
Spain crashed out of the World Cup at the last 16 stage after losing a penalty shootout to Morocco after the game had finished scoreless after extra time, meaning the eight Barça players in Luis Enrique's squad will all be returning to duty at the Ciutat Esportiva earlier than expected.
Pedri and Sergio Busquets both played the full game. Ferran Torres and Gavi were both substituted in the second half, and Jordi Alba in extra time. Ansu Fati and Alejandro Balde both came on for the final minutes of extra time and of the Barça contingent, only Eric Garcia played no part.
Spain missed the only three penalties they got to take, Sergio Busquets being one of the unfortunate takers.
