Spain and Belgium Face Off in World Cup Quarterfinals at SoFi Stadium

On Friday, July 10th, Spain and Belgium will battle at SoFi Stadium for a spot in the World Cup semifinals. Spain, led by Luis de la Fuente, has shown strong form in the knockout rounds, narrowly defeating Portugal 1-0 thanks to Mikel Merino's late goal. Belgium enters with momentum after a commanding 4-1 win over the United States, featuring a brace from Charles De Ketelaere.

Spain’s Likely Starting Lineup (4-3-3)

Manager Luis de la Fuente appears set to keep the same lineup that secured the last victory. Unai Simon will guard the goal with a defense line of Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella. This back four has been impressive, helping Spain achieve five consecutive clean sheets—a World Cup record.

In midfield, Rodri and Pedri are expected to continue their roles, with Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena providing width on either side of Dani Olmo behind forward Mikel Oyarzabal. Nico Williams remains sidelined due to an adductor injury and will likely be on the bench again. Merino is also available off the bench after his decisive impact against Portugal.

Belgium’s Expected Starting 11 (4-2-3-1)

Rudi Garcia faces a key decision as Leandro Trossard is doubtful following a muscle injury sustained against the US, while Amadou Onana is out for the tournament with a knee injury. Thibaut Courtois will start in goal, backed by defenders Timothy Castagne, Brandon Mechele, Arthur Theate, and Maxim De Cuyper.

Hans Vanaken is expected to fill Onana’s spot in midfield alongside Nicolas Raskin. Up front, Charles De Ketelaere leads the attack, supported by Dodi Lukebakio on the right and Jeremy Doku on the left if Trossard cannot play. Youri Tielemans continues in a creative midfield role, making it unnecessary to reinstate Kevin De Bruyne in the starting eleven. Romelu Lukaku is poised to remain on the bench, ready to provide firepower if needed later.

Match Prediction

The forecast for this tight encounter leans slightly towards Spain winning 2-1, but Belgium’s recent form suggests they could push hard for an upset.

Squad Details

In the United States, Fox will broadcast the match nationally. Streaming options include fubo, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app or website. New users can try fubo with a free trial to watch the game live.

Other regions have coverage through:

• Canada: TSN channels and TSN+ streaming
• UK: BBC One and BBC iPlayer
• Australia: SBS and SBS On Demand
• India: Unite8 Sports and ZEE5

"Spain’s disciplined approach and Belgium’s attacking confidence set the stage for a fascinating quarterfinal," said analyst Marios Hamboullas.