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Spain's Possible Lineup to Face Belgium in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals
Luis de la Fuente is expected to stick with the same starting XI that knocked out Portugal as Spain looks to book a place in the World Cup semifinals for the first time since 2010.
Spain enters the quarterfinals full of confidence
Spain heads into one of its biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when it faces Belgium on Friday, July 10, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles with a place in the semifinals on the line.
La Roja reached the last eight after edging Portugal in a tightly contested Round of 16 clash, showing once again its ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
One of Spain's biggest strengths throughout the tournament has been its defensive consistency. Unai Simón has yet to concede a goal, while the back line has looked increasingly comfortable as the competition has progressed.
Even better news for head coach Luis de la Fuente is that he has a fully available squad, with no injuries or suspensions forcing changes ahead of the quarterfinal.
De la Fuente expected to keep faith with his winning formula
Everything points toward the Spain manager naming an unchanged lineup after the performances that carried his team into the knockout rounds.
Unai Simón is set to remain in goal behind a defensive line featuring Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella.
The balance between youth and experience has become one of Spain's greatest assets. Cubarsí has shown remarkable maturity throughout his first World Cup, while Laporte continues to provide leadership and composure in central defense.
On the flanks, both Porro and Cucurella offer width and constant attacking support, giving Spain another dimension whenever it dominates possession.
In midfield, Rodri remains the heartbeat of the team after gradually returning to top form following the physical issues he dealt with before the tournament.
Pedri and Dani Olmo will be key in midfield
Pedri is expected to keep his place alongside Rodri despite not producing his best performance against Portugal.
The Barcelona midfielder remains one of Spain's most creative players and possesses the vision needed to unlock organized defenses, making him difficult to leave out at this stage of the tournament.
Further forward, Dani Olmo has become an indispensable part of De la Fuente's system.
His movement between the lines, ability to create chances and eye for goal make him one of Spain's biggest attacking threats heading into the meeting with Belgium.
Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal will lead Spain's attack
Much of Spain's creativity will once again flow through Lamine Yamal on the right wing.
The 18-year-old has already shown flashes of brilliance during the tournament, but Spain believes his biggest performances could still be ahead as the stakes continue to rise.
On the opposite flank, Álex Baena is expected to keep his starting spot thanks to his work rate, versatility and growing influence in the final third.
Leading the attack will be Mikel Oyarzabal, Spain's top scorer at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with four goals. His movement inside the penalty area and finishing ability have made him one of the team's most reliable offensive weapons.
A victory over Belgium would send Spain back to the World Cup semifinals for the first time since lifting the trophy in South Africa 2010, and De la Fuente appears ready to trust the same group that has carried La Roja this far.

Spain's Predicted Lineup vs Belgium
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Unai Simón.
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella.
Midfielders: Rodri, Pedri.
Attacking Midfielders: Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Álex Baena.
Forward: Mikel Oyarzabal.
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