LIVE - Spain-Belgium: Roja or Red Devils, who will join France in the semifinals?

Spain, the reigning European champions, face a surprising Belgian side in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals this Friday. The winner will advance to play France in the semifinals. The match is set to take place at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with English referee Michael Oliver officiating.

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We know we are playing one of the favorites, we know all the players individually. The strength of this team has been collective for twenty years. The novelty is that they are more solid than before, they have not conceded a goal. But statistics are made to be challenged.

Belgium suffered a last-minute setback as Youri Tielemans was injured during warm-ups and will be replaced by Hans Vanaken. Despite this, Belgium's coach, Rudi Garcia, expressed ambition, stating his team aims to score and compete rather than merely defend. He acknowledged Spain as a favorite with a solid defense but emphasized Belgium's offensive capabilities, noting they are the third-highest scoring team in the tournament.

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We will do everything to score, we want to exist, we don't just want to suffer, otherwise we will be eliminated. We are capable of scoring goals, we are the second-highest attack in the World Cup (third with 13 goals). Everyone already sees us eliminated but we have qualities to show.

Spain enters the match with an impeccable defensive record, having scored nine goals across five games without conceding any. This strong defense is characteristic of their playing style. However, Spain has a history of struggling in World Cup quarterfinals, having only advanced past this stage once before, in 2010, en route to their only world title. The performance of young Spanish attacker Lamine Yamal, who is still seeking a standout game, will be closely watched.

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He should be himself.