Spain Faces Belgium in World Cup Quarterfinal – With an Eye on France

Statistics and History

On the Belgian side, the duel is approached with confidence. „Jeder in unserer Mannschaft glaubt, dass es möglich ist," it is said from the Red Devils' camp. Coach Rudi Garcia pointed to the round-of-16 victory over the USA and emphasized: „Wir haben die USA gerade erst geschlagen in einem Spiel, in dem jeder gegen uns war, also kann es morgen nicht komplizierter sein."

Statistically, much speaks in favor of Spain: Of a total of 22 meetings between the two nations, Spain has won twelve times and Belgium six. In addition, the reigning European champion finds itself among the final eight of a World Cup tournament for the first time since winning the title in 2010. Back then, as now, Spain's defense was impenetrable on the way to the title – four 1:0 victories in the knockout stage.

In the round of 16, Spain prevailed 1:0 against Portugal and sent Cristiano Ronaldo home. Compared to that narrow victory, Luis de la Fuente surprises with a change in midfield. „Wir denken an nichts anderes als Belgien morgen," the coach said. „Aber als Profis kann ich versichern, wir sind komplett auf das Spiel morgen fokussiert."

Belgium's Rocky Path to the Quarterfinal

Belgium's path to the quarterfinal was rockier. After a sluggish start to the tournament, it took a 5:1 win over New Zealand to secure a place in the knockout stage. In the round of 32, the Belgians labored to a narrow 3:2 victory after extra time against Senegal, having come back from 0:2 down. In the round of 16, a statement followed: a 4:1 win against co-host USA, in which there was much commotion over the red card shown to US professional Folarin Balogun, which was initially suspended on probation.

In goal for Belgium stands Thibaut Courtois, the only remaining regular of the "Golden Generation" with a guaranteed spot. „Wir haben Qualitäten, die Spanien einkalkulieren muss," said the Real Madrid keeper. „Wir werden besser und besser," he added. For the "Golden Generation," this now represents the last chance to finally win a title – otherwise, the third place at the 2018 World Cup remains the greatest achievement of this talented team.

Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón has gone 609 minutes without conceding a goal at World Cups. The 29-year-old can extend his impressive streak in the quarterfinal. The last goal the Spaniard conceded was in the third group-stage match of the 2022 World Cup against Japan. In the Champions League, the Europa League, and also at a World Cup, the keeper has proven his class.

Spain's Defensive Strength

In Spain's attack, much hope rests on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who, together with Nico Williams, played a major role in the 2024 European Championship title. The youngster is still showing the aftereffects of the thigh injury he suffered in April. His counterpart on the left wing, Nico Williams, has also been unable to start a match at this World Cup due to injury.

When winning the European Championship two years ago, ten different players scored a total of 15 goals. This squad depth also characterizes Spain at this World Cup. Mikel Oyarzabal scored four of Spain's nine World Cup goals, including a brace in the round of 32 against Austria. Almost half of the goals are his. Only in the round of 32 against Austria (3:0) and against Saudi Arabia (4:0) has the "Roja" scored more than one goal.

Attacking player Dani Olmo stated the goal clearly: „Das Ziel ist es, alle Spiele zu gewinnen." Spain's coach de la Fuente does not want to concern himself with a potential semifinal against France under any circumstances. „Ich weiß nicht, wie es morgen sein wird, aber es sind nicht die Zuschauer, die Tore schießen," he said.

Historical Comparison and Outlook

Belgium can point to a historical comparison: at the 2018 World Cup, the Red Devils beat Brazil 2:1 in the quarterfinal. Back then, Belgium reached a World Cup semifinal for the first time in 32 years. „Auch die waren Favorit," is the reminder from the Belgian camp. Romelu Lukaku has also already scored three times in a row as a "super-sub."

France's coach Didier Deschamps meanwhile revealed that Mbappé not only felt "a pain" in his heel, but also suffered cramps. „Ich habe einen Schlag auf die Ferse bekommen, aber es geht gut," said the Real Madrid forward, who during the celebration in front of the fans appeared to be able to jump around without any problems. The international press celebrated Les Bleus' performance effusively.

Press Reactions to France's Victory

"Gazzetta dello Sport" wrote: „Frankreich ist von einem anderen Planeten: Mbappé und Dembélé schießen Marokko aus dem Turnier." "The Athletic" added: „Mbappé glänzt, Frankreich schlägt Marokko und erreicht das WM-Halbfinale." With his eighth tournament goal, Mbappé drew level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. „Kylian Mbappé ist einfach nicht aufzuhalten," judged the "Daily Mail."

The possible lineups for the quarterfinal in Los Angeles are already known: Spain is expected to line up with Simón – Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella – Rodri, Olmo, Pedri – Lamine Yamal, Oyarzabal, Baena. Belgium is expected to start with Courtois – Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper – Vanaken, Raskin – Lukebakio, Tielemans, Trossard – De Ketelaere. The referee is Oliver from England.

The 2026 World Cup is being held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. For the first time, there are twelve preliminary groups with 48 teams. The ball will roll for 38 days until the new world champion is determined. It kicks off in Los Angeles at 9:00 p.m. German time – and the football world is watching with great anticipation as European champion Spain takes on the "Golden Generation" from Belgium.