Kevin De Bruyne Vs Rodri, Lamaine Yamal Vs Maxim De Cuyper: 3 Match-Ups That Could Shape Spain Vs Belgium

Last Updated:July 10, 2026, 07:00 IST

Spain will face Belgium in the second quarterfinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday (Saturday IST) at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.

2010 champions Spain will face Belgium in the second quarterfinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday (Saturday IST) at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. La Roja booked their place in the last eight with a 1-0 win over Portugal in the Round of 16, while Belgium crushed co-hosts the United States 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.

The Red Devils will be hoping to produce another dominant performance against Spain and reach the FIFA World Cup semifinals for the second time in three editions. However, it will not be an easy task as Spain are yet to concede a goal in this year’s tournament and will head into the contest as favourites.

Spain have kept five consecutive clean sheets at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with their players in red-hot form. They have already defeated the likes of Uruguay and Portugal en route to the quarterfinals, and the reigning European champions will be aiming to extend their impressive run by booking a place in the last four.

Let’s take a look at some of the key battles that might decide the clash:

Kevin De Bruyne vs Rodri

The battle for midfield control. De Bruyne’s creativity and ability to pick out decisive passes will be tested by his former Manchester City teammate Rodri’s positioning, interceptions and composure in possession. Whoever wins this duel could dictate the tempo of the game.

Lamine Yamal vs Maxim De Cuyper

Spain’s teenage sensation will look to exploit Belgium’s left flank with his pace, dribbling and close control. De Cuyper will have to stay disciplined defensively and prevent Yamal from cutting inside onto his stronger foot.

The 18-year-old has made life difficult for opposition team defenders in this year’s tournament despite managing to score only one goal so far.

Romelu Lukaku vs Pau Cubarsí

Lukaku’s physical presence, movement and finishing make him Belgium’s biggest goal threat in the quarterfinal match. The former Chelsea, Manchester United, Everton and Inter Milan forward has scored at least one goal in each of Belgium’s last three matches in this year’s FIFA World Cup.

Cubarsí will face one of the toughest tests of his young career as he attempts to keep the powerful striker quiet inside the penalty area.

About the Author

Harshit BishtSenior Sub-editor

Harshit Bisht is a sports journalist at CNN-News18, where he has been covering cricket, football, and major sporting events from around the world since July 1, 2024. Driven by a passion for storytelli...Read More

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