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Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia says his players are unfazed by predictions that Spain will eliminate them in Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final, insisting the Red Devils have the quality to pull off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
Spain head into the clash in Los Angeles as overwhelming favourites after an outstanding campaign in which they have yet to concede a goal. Luis de la Fuente’s side has impressed with disciplined defending, fluid attacking football and complete control in every match.
Belgium, however, have endured a more difficult journey to the last eight. After drawing against Egypt and Iran in the group stage, they edged Senegal before producing an emphatic 4-1 victory over co-hosts the United States in the Round of 16.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Garcia acknowledged Spain’s status as favourites but said his players remain convinced they can reach the semi-finals.
“Everyone is already talking about us going home, but we believe we can do it,” Garcia said.
“We believe we can qualify for the semi-finals and we will do everything possible to make that happen.”
The Belgian coach said his side’s attacking numbers prove they deserve to be among the tournament’s final eight.
According to Garcia, Belgium have scored 13 goals at the World Cup, with only France and Argentina finding the net more often. He also noted that his team has registered 107 shots during the competition, second only to France despite playing one fewer match.
Garcia dismissed suggestions that Belgium could face a hostile reception from supporters in Los Angeles following their victory over the United States.
“We’ve already experienced that after beating the United States in a stadium where almost everyone supported the home team. That won’t change anything for us,” he said.
“The supporters don’t score goals. Our focus is on facing a very strong Spanish team. They are an outstanding football side, but although we are the underdogs, we will fight until the end.”
Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku echoed his manager’s confidence, insisting Belgium have not come this far simply to bow out of the competition.
“If you’ve reached the quarter-finals, you’re not here just to go home,” Lukaku said.
“We have enough quality in this squad, but against Spain we must produce the perfect performance if we want to progress.”
Spain and Belgium meet on Friday for a place in the World Cup semi-finals, with La Roja aiming to extend their unbeaten run, while Belgium hope to upset one of the tournament’s leading title contenders.
