Spain: de la Fuente’s team has regained its big-game mentality

After being held by Cape Verde in their opening match, Spain have responded with a string of strong performances. La Roja followed up with a dominant 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, then secured narrow victories against Uruguay (1-0), Austria (3-0), and Portugal (1-0). The Portugal clash was a perfect example of Spain’s maturity — they were not at their most spectacular, but stayed composed, absorbed pressure, and produced the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.

Mikel Merino emerged as the match-winner after coming off the bench to replace Dani Olmo and score the late goal. His impact could push him into the starting lineup, although de la Fuente still has plenty of attacking options. Olmo remains a key figure between the lines, while Lamine Yamal continues to provide creativity and unpredictability despite not contributing directly to the scoresheet. Spain’s substitutions have also become one of their biggest strengths, with the coach consistently making game-changing adjustments.

Belgium: confidence growing as the Red Devils find their rhythm

Belgium have reached their best form at exactly the right stage of the tournament. After an unforgettable comeback against Senegal — overturning a two-goal deficit before winning in extra time — Rudi Garcia’s side followed it up with a convincing 4-1 victory over the USA. Their speed out wide, midfield control, and clinical finishing have transformed them into a serious threat. For a team that entered the World Cup with limited expectations, a quarter-final place has already been a significant achievement.

However, Belgium face a major selection dilemma before meeting Spain. Amadou Onana suffered a serious injury in the win over the USA, leaving Garcia with a midfield puzzle to solve. Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, and Nicolas Raskin may now take on greater responsibility. In attack, Dodi Lukebakio’s impressive display gives the coach another option, but Jeremy Doku is expected to return to the starting lineup, while Romelu Lukaku remains a dangerous weapon from the bench, especially against tired defenses.

Probable lineups

🇪🇸 Spain: Simon, Cucurella, Laporte, Cubarsí, Porro, Pedri, Hernández, Baena, Olmo, Yamal, Oyarzabal.

🇧🇪 Belgium: Courtois, Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Keyper, Raskin, Tielemans, Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku, De Ketelaere.

Match facts and head-to-head

Spain have won their last five meetings against Belgium.

Spain have avoided defeat to Belgium in regulation time since 1981, recording nine wins and two draws during that span.

Three of Spain’s five World Cup 2026 matches and four of Belgium’s five games have produced no more than nine corners.

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