Spain vs Belgium: World Cup Hopes Clash in LA

Timing & Broadcasting

Spain and Belgium will meet in Los Angeles on Friday, 10 July, with kick‑off set for 8 pm BST. Viewers in the UK can tune into BBC 1, which will begin coverage at 7:30 pm BST, while a live stream is available on BBC iPlayer.

The match marks a pivotal stage of the tournament, as both sides sit on the brink of the World Cup final. A win for either nation would secure a place in the semi‑finals, while a loss would effectively end their campaign.

Why This Match Matters

Spain have been virtually unstoppable so far, not conceding a single goal before reaching the knockout phase. Their narrow victory over Portugal came thanks to Mikel Merino’s extra‑time header, a reminder that their attack can still lack certainty.

Belgium, meanwhile, have found their best form at the right moment, dumping out the USA in Seattle after a shaky group‑stage performance. The Red Devils are eager to prove they belong among the tournament’s elite.

Both teams are two wins away from the World Cup final, making this encounter a de facto semifinal for the right to face the winner of France‑Morocco.

Spain’s Squad Outlook

Coach Luis de la Fuente is expected to field the same line‑up that edged past Portugal, retaining a solid defensive backbone. Nico Williams continues to nurse a muscle problem after a harsh tackle by Uruguay, while Yeremy Pino remains sidelined with a collar‑bone injury sustained in the same match.

The likely starting XI includes Simon between the posts, Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte and Cucurella across the back four, with Rodri and Pedri anchoring midfield. Yamal, Olmo and Baena will support the forward line, flanked by Oyarzabal.

Belgium’s Injuries & Returnees

Amadou Onana’s tournament ends abruptly after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against the USA, sidelining the Aston Villa midfielder for the remainder of the year. The club’s medical staff expect a long rehabilitation period.

Jeremy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne are both in contention to return to the starting XI after missing recent fixtures. Their presence could revitalise Belgium’s attacking options ahead of the decisive clash.

Possible Lineups

Spain will likely line up with Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal. Belgium’s probable formation sees Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; De Ketelaere.

These selections reflect the current fitness picture and the tactical needs of each side as they aim to advance to the semi‑finals. Expect both managers to make adjustments based on how the opening phases unfold.