Belgium will face Spain in the second quarter-final of the World Cup on Friday at Los Angeles Stadium, with the winner securing a place in the semi-finals against France.
Belgium arrive at this stage on an 18-match unbeaten run and have been impressive going forward. Although their defence has shown some vulnerability—conceding five goals in their last six matches—their attack has been highly productive, averaging 2.83 goals per game.
In the group stage, they drew 1-1 with Egypt and 0-0 with Iran before registering a convincing 5-1 win over New Zealand. Their performances improved in the knockout rounds, where they edged Senegal 3-2 and then beat the USA 4-1.
Belgium team news
Belgium have suffered a major setback in midfield. Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament after tearing his ACL during the Round of 16 victory over the USA.
To compensate, manager Rudi Garcia is expected to bring in Hans Vanaken as a possible replacement alongside Youri Tielemans in midfield.
At the back, Zeno Debast remains sidelined through injury, meaning Belgium will rely on Brandon Mechele and Nathan Ngoy in defence.
There is some good news, though, as Kevin De Bruyne is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested for tactical reasons in the previous match.
In attack, Charles De Ketelaere is likely to start as a false nine, while Romelu Lukaku could be used later in the game as an impact substitute.
Belgium predicted lineup
Possible Belgium starting XI:Â Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans; Lukebakio, De Bruyne, Trossard; De Ketelaere
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Friday, 10th July.
How to watch Spain vs Belgium?
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarter-final will be broadcast live and free on BBC One.
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