FIFA World Cup 2026: Rudi Garcia backs Belgium to give Spain "run for their money" in quarter-final
Los Angeles, July 10
Belgium coach Rudi Cargia acknowledged that they may be heading into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against Spain on Friday as the underdogs but said the Belgian Red Devils will do everything to give La Rojas "a run for their money," Reuters reported.
Garcia acknowledged Spain's quality and possession-based style but expressed confidence in his team's attacking strength and ability to challenge the European champions. He said that despite being underdogs, Belgium believe they can compete and give Spain a tough fight.
"We know we are playing one of the favourites. Spain are probably the best at ball possession and they have been playing in a recognisable way for 15 or 20 years. But we have a great team. We are the second-highest scorers in the World Cup and we are facing the team with the highest expected goals. We think we can do it," he said as per Reuters.
"Even if we are the underdogs, we will do everything we can to give them a run for their money," he added.
Belgium reached the quarter-finals after a mixed group-stage campaign, drawing 1-1 with Egypt and playing out a goalless draw against Iran before securing a 5-1 win over New Zealand. They then edged past Senegal 3-2 in the Round of 32 and defeated co-hosts USA 4-1 in the Round of 16 to book their place in the last eight.
Spain, meanwhile, head into the quarter-final in formidable form. The reigning European champions are yet to concede a goal at the tournament, having kept a record six consecutive FIFA World Cup clean sheets.
After topping Group H, they eliminated Austria in the Round of 32 before edging past Portugal in the Round of 16 to reach the last eight.
While Spain will be aiming to punch their ticket to the final four of the FIFA World Cup for the first time since their championship-winning run in 2010, the 2018 bronze medal holders Belgium will be aiming to reach the semifinals, with Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne and other veterans playing a crucial role leadership-wise.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a neutral fan, I'm just happy to see Belgium back in the quarters. Their 2018 bronze was amazing. But Spain's 6 clean sheets? That's like a perfect Bollywood movie—rare and impressive. Hope it's not a boring tactical battle.
Honestly, I think Belgium is underestimating Spain. The way Spain dismantled Portugal, it's like watching a chai tapri where everyone knows their role. But kudos to Garcia for the positive mindset—India's football fans need that fighting spirit too! 🇮🇳⚽
Why is everyone ignoring Belgium's journey? Drawing with Iran and Egypt is worrying. But that 5-1 win against New Zealand? That's like a chapati that finally rises after a few flops! Still, Spain's defense is like Mumbai traffic—impossible to break. 😅
I'm all for underdog stories, but Spain's record is scary. 6 clean sheets? That's like a perfect exam score! Belgium needs to channel their inner 'Lagaan' and pull off a miracle. Lukaku and De Bruyne have the class, but do they have the grit against this Spanish machine? 🤔
Sacchi mana—Garcia is right to be optimistic. India's football fans should learn from this never-say-die attitude. But Spain's possession style is like a slow cooker—it eventually gets you. Still, if Belgium can score early, it's game on! Fingers crossed for a thriller! 🙏
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