Spain vs Belgium – Predictions and Odds – 2026 World Cup (July 10, 2026)

Spain and Belgium meet in a fascinating 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final with a place in the last four on the line. Spain have looked like one of the tournament’s standout teams, progressing without conceding a goal, while Belgium arrive full of confidence after an emphatic 4-1 victory over the United States.

I expect Spain to dominate possession, forcing Belgium to defend for long spells before looking to spring forward through Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard and Charles De Ketelaere. If Belgium can survive the early pressure, they certainly have the quality to make this far more competitive than many expect.

Spain

Spain have combined defensive solidity with excellent game management throughout the tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s side topped their group before eliminating Austria 3-0 and edging past Portugal thanks to a dramatic late winner from Mikel Merino. Five consecutive clean sheets underline just how difficult they are to break down.

Rodri continues to dictate the tempo in midfield, while Pedri and Dani Olmo provide creativity between the lines. Lamine Yamal has been one of Spain’s biggest attacking threats, constantly stretching defences with his pace and one-on-one ability. Nico Williams has been recovering from an adductor problem and may again start from the bench, although he is expected to be available.

Defensively, Spain have been exceptional. Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsí have formed a reliable partnership, with Marc Cucurella providing energy down the left. Their ability to control possession means opponents create very few clear chances.

Belgium

Belgium’s route to the quarter-finals has been more eventful. They recovered from difficult moments against Senegal before producing arguably their best display of the tournament by beating the United States 4-1, with Charles De Ketelaere starring in attack.

Kevin De Bruyne remains Belgium’s creative heartbeat, although Rudi Garcia has managed his minutes carefully during the tournament. Romelu Lukaku is also available after scoring off the bench against the USA, giving Belgium genuine firepower if the game opens up.

The biggest concern is midfield balance following Amadou Onana’s serious knee injury, which leaves Belgium without one of their strongest defensive players in front of the back four. That could prove crucial against Spain’s technically gifted midfield. There is also uncertainty surrounding defender Zeno Debast, who has been unavailable amid an ongoing fitness dispute with his club.

Referee: Michael Oliver

England’s Michael Oliver has been appointed to officiate this quarter-final. He has previously refereed Spain in seven competitive internationals, with Spain remaining unbeaten under his control, recording four wins and three draws. Belgium have also enjoyed success with Oliver, winning both previous competitive matches he has overseen involving the Red Devils.

Oliver generally allows games to flow but is not reluctant to produce cards when challenges escalate, particularly in high-stakes knockout matches. Given the technical quality on both sides, I would not expect an unusually high number of bookings unless the contest becomes particularly tense late on.