Spain's Dominance Over Belgium: Can the Red Devils Finally End the Streak?

Spain has dominated Belgium for more than four decades, but the Red Devils enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals on an 18-match unbeaten run. Can they finally end one of international football's longest-standing streaks?

The quarterfinal clash between Spain and Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature two of the tournament's most in-form teams, while also putting a remarkable historical trend to the test. Although the Belgians arrive riding an impressive 18-match unbeaten streak, recent history has been overwhelmingly in favor of La Roja.

Since suffering a 2-1 defeat at UEFA Euro 1980, Spain has not lost to Belgium in any competition. Across their last 11 meetings, the Spanish have recorded nine victories and two draws, including five consecutive wins by an emphatic aggregate score of 13-1.

Spain's Historic Defensive Run

The team managed by Luis de la Fuente heads into the quarterfinals full of confidence after eliminating Portugal, backed by one of the strongest defensive performances ever seen at a World Cup. Spain has now kept six consecutive clean sheets, the longest such streak in tournament history.

The Spaniards have also impressed with their collective play throughout the competition. Rodri has dictated the tempo from midfield, while Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Mikel Merino have emerged as key figures in Spain's pursuit of a second FIFA World Cup title.

The numbers also highlight the impact of Luis de la Fuente, who has won each of his first six knockout matches in major international tournaments with Spain, putting him within reach of an all-time European coaching milestone.

Belgium Looks to Rewrite History

Despite the unfavorable head-to-head record, Belgium enters this matchup with plenty of momentum. Under Rudi Garcia, the Red Devils have gone 18 consecutive matches without defeat, compiling 12 wins and six draws while also winning their last three matches at this World Cup.

The experience of Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard, and Thibaut Courtois will be crucial as Belgium attempts to end a drought that has lasted more than four decades against one of Europe's traditional powers.

On paper, this promises to be one of the standout matches of the tournament. Spain will look to extend its remarkable dominance over Belgium, while the Red Devils aim to prove that their unbeaten run is strong enough to overcome one of the favorites to lift the trophy.