Spain face Belgium at the Los Angeles Stadium on Friday, July 10, with a place in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals at stake. The winners will advance to meet France, who defeated Morocco 2-0 in the other quarter-final.

Spain enter the contest as deserved favourites. Luis de la Fuente’s side have reached the last eight without conceding a goal, while their 1-0 victory over Portugal demonstrated that they can remain patient and find a decisive moment even when a knockout match becomes tight.

Their greatest advantage should be control. Spain possess the technical quality to dominate the ball, dictate the pace and force Belgium to defend for extended periods. Rodri, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz provide security in midfield, while Lamine Yamal offers the individual creativity required to break down a compact defensive structure.

Mikel Oyarzabal is another major threat. He has already scored four goals during the tournament and gives Spain a reliable presence around the penalty area. Yamal has contributed only one goal so far, but his movement, ball-carrying and willingness to work defensively remain important to Spain’s overall balance.

Belgium, however, cannot be dismissed. They recovered dramatically against Senegal before producing an impressive performance to eliminate co-hosts the United States. Their strongest route to victory is likely to come through quick transitions rather than sustained possession. Jérémy Doku’s acceleration, Kevin De Bruyne’s passing and Romelu Lukaku’s physical presence could punish Spain if the favourites commit too many players forward.

The loss of Amadou Onana is a significant concern for Belgium. The midfielder has been ruled out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury, weakening Belgium’s athleticism and defensive protection in the centre of the pitch. That could make it difficult for them to contain Spain’s movement between the lines for the full match.

Belgium may therefore defend in a compact shape, concede possession and wait for opportunities to counter. That approach gives them a chance, particularly if they score first, but it also invites sustained Spanish pressure. Spain have the patience and depth to keep probing without becoming overly direct.

This is unlikely to be a comfortable evening for La Roja. Belgium possess enough experience and attacking talent to create chances, and Spain coach De la Fuente has described them as his team’s most difficult opponents of the tournament so far.

Nevertheless, Spain appear stronger in midfield, more dependable defensively and better equipped to control the decisive phases of the match. Belgium can threaten on the break, but Spain should eventually create enough opportunities to progress.

Correct Score Prediction: Spain 2–1 Belgium

Spain are expected to dominate possession and take the lead, although Belgium’s transition threat makes a clean sheet far from certain. A competitive match should ultimately be settled by Spain’s superior control and greater attacking depth.