Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia believes his side can upset European champions Spain despite being widely tipped to lose their 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final on Friday.
Spain head into the clash in Los Angeles as overwhelming favorites after reaching the last eight without conceding a goal in the tournament.
However, Garcia says his players are embracing the underdog tag and remain confident of reaching the semi-finals.
Garcia embraces underdog role
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Garcia acknowledged that many people expect Belgium’s World Cup campaign to end against Spain.
“Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it,” Garcia said.
“We think we can pull it off, and we’re going to do everything we can to get to the semis.”
Belgium endured a difficult group stage. They drew with Egypt and Iran before edging Senegal to finish top of their group.
The Red Devils, however, produced one of their best displays in the round of 16 by beating the United States 4-1.
Belgium boast strong attacking numbers
Garcia believes Belgium’s attacking form gives his team reason for confidence.
The Red Devils have scored 13 goals at the tournament. Only France and Argentina have scored more.
Belgium have also registered 107 shots, the second-highest total in the competition behind France.
Those statistics highlight the attacking threat Belgium will carry into Friday’s encounter.
Coach unfazed by hostile crowd
Garcia also dismissed concerns about playing in front of a crowd that could largely support Spain after Belgium knocked out World Cup co-hosts the United States.
“We just beat the US in a stadium where everyone was against us,” he said.
“I don’t think the conditions will be any more difficult tomorrow.”
He added that Belgium’s focus remains on matching the quality of the Spanish side.
“We’ve got enough on our plate with the Spanish squad that is a wonderful footballing team,” Garcia said.
“Even if we’re the underdogs, we’re going to do everything we can to give them a run for their money.”
Lukaku calls for perfect performance
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku also expressed confidence ahead of the quarter-final.
“If you manage to get this far, then you’re not going to play a game just to go home,” Lukaku said.
“I think we also have the necessary talent. Tomorrow we need to play the perfect game.”
Belgium will now aim to produce another upset when they face Spain for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
