Belgium predicted starting XI vs Spain, World Cup roster
Belgium's national football team is preparing for a 2026 World Cup quarterfinal match against Spain following a successful run in the knockout stages. The team faces lineup adjustments due to injuries and tactical decisions by coach Rudi Garcia.
Why it matters
The World Cup is a major global sporting event with significant cultural and economic impact on participating nations.
Hear this story After a less-than-promising jaunt through the group stage at the 2026 World Cup , Belgium appears to have hit its stride in the knockout rounds .
Well, it took more than 80 minutes in the round of 32 win over Senegal to get going. Down 2-0, Belgium scored two goals to force extra time, where it prevailed 3-2 in a thriller.
The Red Devils kept that momentum going in a 4-1 win over the United States in the round of 16. Now, Belgium will hope to keep its surge going against Spain , the reigning European champion, in the quarterfinals.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia opted for an athletic starting XI against the United States in the round of 16. This configuration meant that longtime national team star Kevin De Bruyne did not start. Neither did Jérémy Doku or Romelu Lukaku, Belgium's all-time leading goal-scorer.
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