CORNERFLICK
Luis de la Fuente has called Belgium Spain’s sternest challenge yet before their World Cup 2026 quarter-final.
The Spain coach told a pre-match press conference that Belgium are an experienced side, built around players who have spent years at Europe’s biggest clubs and know how to win. He said that makes Friday’s meeting a serious test for La Roja.
De la Fuente also looked ahead to a possible semi-final against France, saying he watched their game with Morocco and thought France were the better team. Even so, he said Spain’s full focus remains on Belgium.
He also praised Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal, while stressing that Spain’s success comes from the collective rather than any one player. Yamal, he said, has outstanding talent and put in a strong display against Portugal, even without scoring. De la Fuente added that the best is still to come from the teenager.