Spain vs. Belgium: La Roja, the Nemesis of the Red Devils

Not France or Argentina, but Spain is the team that has shown the most consistency since the start of the 2026 World Cup. Coach Luis de la Fuente's squad began with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, but they have grown stronger with each match. As of now, Spain is also the most well-rounded team at the 2026 World Cup, with five unbeaten matches and no goals conceded.

De la Fuente's team has won all of their last four matches without conceding a goal, a defensive record. This achievement has made goalkeeper Unai Simon a part of history.

A solid defense is the foundation for Spain's unbeaten run, while the midfield—featuring Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo, and Lamine Yamal—helps La Roja maintain control of the game. Up front, Mikel Oyarzabal is in fine form with four goals. La Roja has also shown that they have multiple ways to make a difference without relying on a single individual.

The victory over Portugal in the round of 16 extended La Roja's unbeaten streak to 15 matches across all competitions and reaffirmed their composure in big games. However, what the Spanish players displayed in the match against Portugal was rather unconvincing. In that game, Spain barely created any dangerous chances throughout regular time.

The Belgian team will pose a challenge for the Bulls. The Red Devils play quite directly, with physicality and rich attacking experience. Coach Rudi Garcia's squad boasts high-quality players in every position and has scored nine goals in five matches at this World Cup.

After defeating the USA, coach Rudi Garcia's team extended their unbeaten streak to 18 matches.

At this World Cup, Belgium has earned the title "king of comebacks" thanks to their crazy and emotional victories. In the group stage match against Senegal, Belgium trailed by two goals until the 85th minute, then fought back to level 2-2 before winning 3-2 with a penalty in the 120+5th minute. Right after that historic escape, the Red Devils continued their momentum by thrashing the host USA 4-1 in the round of 16.

Belgium's biggest concern is their defense, which features rather aging players. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is 33 years old. The center-back pair of Brandon Mechele and Arthur Theate will face difficulties against Lamine Yamal's explosive pace.

Spain holds the advantage over Belgium in recent encounters. La Roja has won the last four matches against the Red Devils. The most recent meeting between the two sides took place in September 2016, when Spain won 2-0 in a friendly. However, Belgium has also caused Spain heartbreak at the World Cup. In the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals, the Red Devils eliminated La Roja on penalties after a 1-1 draw, advancing to the semifinals.

The match between Spain and Belgium will take place at 2:00 AM on July 11. This rematch in the World Cup quarterfinals is not only about a spot in the semifinals but also carries the historical rivalry between two of Europe's major football nations.

Expected starting lineups for both teams
Spain: Simon, Cucurella, Laporte, Cubarsi, Porro, Pedri, Rodri, Baena, Olmo, Yamal, Oyarzabal
Belgium: Courtois, Castagne, Mechele, Theate, De Cuyper, Tielemans, Vanaken, Doku, Lukebakio, De Ketelaere, Lukaku