European champions Spain will look to extend their remarkable defensive record when they take on Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday.
Spain booked their place in the last eight with a 1-0 victory over Portugal on Monday, becoming the first team in World Cup history to keep six consecutive clean sheets.
Although Luis de la Fuente’s side have not matched the attacking firepower of some tournament favourites, they have impressed with their disciplined, possession-based style of play.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has scored just once in five appearances after arriving at the tournament while recovering from a late-season injury. However, striker Mikel Oyarzabal has stepped up with four goals, including a brace in Spain’s 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32.
Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo praised Yamal’s influence despite his modest goal return, saying the youngster’s ability to attract defenders creates space for his teammates.
“He brings so much to the team with his dribbling and presence. When he receives the ball, two or three opposing players close in on him, which opens up space,” Olmo said.
Spain have conceded only six shots on target in five matches, underlining the strength of a defence anchored by goalkeeper Unai Simon.
“We are a team where everyone attacks and everyone defends,” Olmo added. “If we keep a clean sheet, we’re closer to winning.”
Belgium head into the contest after a dramatic knockout campaign that saw them overturn a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 before easing past co-hosts the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice.
The tournament is expected to be the final World Cup appearance for several members of Belgium’s “Golden Generation,” including Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
Although neither veteran started the victory over the United States, Lukaku came off the bench to score his third goal of the tournament, taking his overall World Cup tally to eight.
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia also has attacking options in Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois remains one of the team’s key figures.
The clash in Los Angeles marks Belgium’s third World Cup quarter-final appearance in four tournaments, although the Red Devils are still seeking their first appearance in a World Cup final.
Spain, despite winning the tournament in 2010, have reached the semi-finals only once since the competition adopted its current knockout format.
