Preview: Spain vs Belgium | Latest news, line-ups, absences (10/07/2026)
Preview, team news, head-to-head, probable line-ups and where to watch Spain vs Belgium in the World Cup quarter-finals
SoFi Stadium hosts Spain vs Belgium on Friday, July 10, in what promises to be an enthralling 2026 World Cup quarter-final in Los Angeles.
Spain have yet to fully kick into gear so far this tournament, but they did dig in to book their place in the last eight by beating Portugal 1-0 in a tense Iberian derby, eventually decided by a late Mikel Merino strike from a fine Ferran Torres assist. Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled long periods of possession and showed the composure expected of one of the 2026 World Cup favourites.
Belgium also arrive with momentum after overcoming the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16. Rudi Garcia‘s side put in their best performance of the tournament so far against the in-form co-hosts.
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Spain continue to control games through their dominance of the ball but their sharpness and decisiveness has been slightly out of sync so far at the World Cup. Lamine Yamal had a tough game against Portugal, largely kept quiet by PSG’s Nuno Mendes before the full-back had to withdraw through injury. Alex Baena continues to be the preferred choice on the left wing, ahead of Nico Williams who has only recently returned from injury.
Belgium appear to be growing into the competition. After a rocky group stage campaign, the 4-1 win over co-hosts USA gives them a much needed morale boost. Kevin De Bruyne started on the bench against the USA, as did Romelu Lukaku, who rediscovered his scoring touch by netting his side’s final goal in the win. Jérémy Doku has consistently stretched opposition defences with his pace, while Youri Tielemans has risen to form in the knockout stage.
Spain
De la Fuente is expected to remain largely unchanged the side that eliminated Portugal, although there will be one or two decisions to make. Marcos Llorente started the tournament at right-back but Pedro Porro has since taken his place, and it will be interesting to see if De la Fuente sticks with the Tottenham man. Rodri will anchor the midfield alongside Pedri, while Lamine Yamal will look to provide the magic from the right-hand-side of the forward line. A big question remains over who will be picked on the other side of the attack, with Baena yet to impress despite his extended opportunities, and with Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino waiting for a chance.
Belgium
Garcia is also unlikely to make wholesale changes following Belgium’s impressive Round of 16 display, although one will certainly have to be made for Amadou Onana, who suffered a devastating ACL injury. Garcia has a big decision over whether to start the veteran De Bruyne against such a high energy Spain side, or opt for fresher legs. Charles De Ketelaere may also have played himself into a starting spot ahead of Lukaku after scoring a brace against the USA.
Teams H2H: Head-to-head stats
Spain have enjoyed the better of recent meetings between the nations, although encounters have generally been closely contested.
The two sides have not met in 10 years, when Spain defeated Belgium 2-0 away from home in an international friendly.
Recent meetings:
- 01/09/2016: Belgium 0-2 Spain (International friendly)
- 05/09/2009: Spain 5-0 Belgium (FIFA World Cup qualifier)
- 15/10/2008: Belgium 1-2 Spain (FIFA World Cup qualifier)
- 08/10/2008: Belgium 0-2 Spain (FIFA World Cup qualifier)
Predicted line-ups
Spain are expected to keep faith with the side that defeated Portugal, while Belgium should also name an unchanged XI after their convincing victory over the United States.
Tactical analysis: Spain’s possession against Belgium’s transitions
Spain will expect to dominate the ball, patiently moving Belgium around through Rodri and Pedri before looking to release Yamal into space. Now it is up to the Barcelona star to step up after a slow start to his tournament. With Pedro Porro backing him up, their ability to create overloads on the right side could be decisive.
Belgium, however, possess the pace to punish any turnovers. Doku and Trossard thrive in transition, while De Bruyne’s passing can instantly turn defence into attack. Lukaku‘s physical presence also gives Belgium a direct outlet whenever Spain press high, if he starts, while De Ketelaere offers a better link-up threat with his fellow attacking players.
The midfield contest between Rodri and De Bruyne could ultimately decide the tie, if the veteran eventually gets to start. If Spain dictate possession, they should gradually wear Belgium down. If De Bruyne finds space between the lines, Belgium have enough quality to create chances against anyone.
Key players to watch
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
The teenage sensation has yet to fully light up the tournament although the intention is there, with his fearless dribbling and exceptional creativity despite things not yet having coming off for him so far. Yamal consistently draws multiple defenders before creating openings for teammates, making him one of Spain’s biggest attacking weapons. Belgium’s full-backs will have to limit his influence if Garcia’s side are to reach the semi-finals. Yamal to register either a goal or an assist looks an attractive player market.
Youri Tielemans (Belgium)
The Aston Villa midfielder is the creative hub of the team now that De Bruyne is the latter stages of his career. Whether controlling possession or launching quick counter-attacks, Tielemans has the vision to unlock even the strongest defences. Against Spain, his ability to find Trossard, Lukebakio or Doku early could prove decisive. He is in fine form at this World Cup, with three goals in four games, as well as one assist, proving the hero in the game against Senegal. The latest odds on Tielemans scoring or assisting look like an appealing punt.
Where to watch Spain vs Belgium in the UK and Ireland
Spain vs Belgium kicks off at 20:00 BST on Friday, July 10 at Sofi Stadium (Los Angeles Stadium) in LA.
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on BBC One and available for streaming on iPlayer.
In the Republic of Ireland, the match will be available live through RTÉ and RTÉ Player.
Spain vs Belgium prediction and betting tips
The majority of Spain vs Belgium predictions lean in the reigning European champions’ favour, due to their overall quality and latter-stage tournament experience. Current betting markets imply approximately a 58% chance of a Spain victory inside 90 minutes, compared to around 19% for Belgium, while the draw is priced at roughly 23%.
Belgium possess enough individual quality to trouble any opponent, particularly through their attacking options, but Spain’s midfield control, defensive organisation and attacking variety make them one of the favourites to win the tournament according to World Cup betting experts. Expect an entertaining contest, although De la Fuente’s side appear to have the edge to book their place in the semi-finals.
