Belgium are relishing their underdog status as they gear up to take on European champions Spain in a highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final clash on Friday. Coach Rudi Garcia believes his squad has both the attacking power and belief to pull off an upset against one of the tournament’s favorites.
Spain, known for their possession-based style and consistency, rediscovered their form with a convincing 3-0 win over Austria in the round of 32. While Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente struck a philosophical tone ahead of the match, Garcia leaned on analytics, pointing out Belgium’s attacking credentials.
“We know we are playing one of the favorites. Spain are probably the best at ball possession and have played in a recognizable way for 15 or 20 years,” Garcia said. “But we have a great team. We are the second-highest scorers in the World Cup and are facing the team with the highest expected goals. We think we can do it.”
Belgium, with 13 goals so far, only trail France (16) and Argentina (14) in the scoring charts. Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku emphasized the team’s unity and readiness: “If you get this far, you don’t play just to go home. Spain are excellent, but we are well prepared and have assets that can make life difficult for them.”
Lukaku, whose minutes have been carefully managed during the tournament, stressed that the focus is on the team, not individual achievements. “At this stage of my career, you have to play with your head as well.”
Belgium also expect a challenging atmosphere in Los Angeles, especially after knocking out the United States in front of a partisan crowd in Seattle. Garcia is confident his players won’t be fazed: “It’s not the crowd that scores the goals. We’ll focus on what we can do. Even if we are the underdogs, we will do everything to give Spain a run for their money.”
With belief surging through the squad, Belgium are set to throw everything at Spain in their quest for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
