Spain vs Belgium – Predictions and Odds – 2026 World Cup (July 10, 2026)

Spain meet Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup in Los Angeles, and I make Spain clear favourites here. Not because Belgium are weak, but because Spain look the more complete side over 90 minutes.

Belgium’s win over the United States was impressive, but this is a very different type of match. They are unlikely to get the same space to attack, and Spain’s control in midfield should force them into longer defensive spells.

Spain

Spain have grown into the tournament really well. The most important detail for me is not just that they are winning, but how little they are giving away. They have yet to concede, and that defensive record makes a big difference in a knockout match.

Luis de la Fuente’s side are not relying on one player to carry them. Lamine Yamal gives them width and one-v-one threat, Dani Olmo links midfield and attack, and Mikel Oyarzabal offers clever movement in the final third. Behind that, Spain have enough control in midfield to slow the game down when needed.

I also liked the way they handled Portugal. Spain did not need to chase the match or open themselves up. They kept Portugal quiet, managed the rhythm and looked comfortable without playing at full pace for the whole game. That is usually a strong sign in tournament football.

Belgium

Belgium arrive with confidence after beating the USA 4-1, and I would not dismiss them completely. They still have players who can hurt Spain if the match becomes stretched, especially in transition.

The issue is whether Belgium can cope without long spells on the ball. Against Spain, they may have to defend deeper than they would like, and that is where I have doubts. Courtois can keep them in the match, but relying on your goalkeeper against a side that moves the ball as well as Spain is not a comfortable betting angle.

Belgium’s best route is probably a direct one: win the ball, play forward quickly and try to attack before Spain reset. If they are forced into a slow, settled game, I think Spain’s structure suits that much better.

Referee: Michael Oliver

Michael Oliver takes charge of the match, so this will feel familiar to a UK audience. He is experienced enough for this level and usually tries to let the game flow where possible.

I would not make cards my main betting focus here. A quarter-final can always bring tension, but Oliver is not the reason I would get involved in this match. The stronger angle, in my view, is on Spain’s control and Belgium’s difficulty creating repeated chances.