New Delhi: Spain will put its remarkable unbeaten run on the line when it takes on Belgium in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup quarterfinal on Friday, with both sides carrying strong momentum into one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.
The reigning European champions have been flawless throughout the World Cup, winning every match without conceding a goal. Spain is also unbeaten in 36 consecutive competitive matches since March 2023, underlining its dominance heading into the knockout clash.
Despite Spain’s impressive record, Belgium remains confident of causing a major upset. Head coach Rudi Garcia said his team believes it has the quality to overcome one of the tournament favourites and secure a place in the semifinals.
Belgium enters the contest after a commanding 4 1 victory over co host United States in the Round of 16, extending its unbeaten run across all competitions to 18 matches. The Red Devils are hoping their experienced squad can finally deliver a landmark achievement on the world stage.
The winner of the quarterfinal will face France in the semifinals, but both teams insisted their full focus remains on the immediate challenge.
Spain has built its campaign on an outstanding defensive record, with goalkeeper Unai Simón facing very few serious tests thanks to the disciplined backline marshalled by Rodri. However, Belgium possesses one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacks, featuring Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard and Charles De Ketelaere.
Lukaku acknowledged that Belgium must produce a near perfect performance to eliminate Spain but said the squad welcomes the challenge against one of international football’s strongest teams.
While Spain has been defensively solid, its attack has occasionally lacked consistency. Seven of its nine tournament goals came in victories over Saudi Arabia and Austria, with Mikel Merino’s late strike proving decisive in the narrow Round of 16 win over Portugal.
Coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence in his team’s attacking quality, saying Spain has created numerous scoring opportunities and remains capable of improving its finishing. He also praised teenage star Lamine Yamal for his overall contribution despite scoring only once in the tournament, highlighting the youngster’s growing maturity and impact on both ends of the pitch.
Belgium will be without midfielder Amadou Onana due to a knee injury, forcing a tactical reshuffle ahead of the crucial encounter. However, the expected return of Kevin De Bruyne provides a significant boost as the Red Devils look to end Spain’s unbeaten streak and move one step closer to World Cup glory.
