Belgium Ready To Defy Odds Against Spain, Says Garcia Ahead Of World Cup Quarter-final

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia insists his side are unfazed by the belief that their World Cup journey will end against Spain, saying his players are determined to upset the European champions and book a place in the semi-finals.

Spain head into Friday’s quarter-final in Los Angeles as overwhelming favourites after producing one of the tournament’s most impressive runs. They have yet to concede a goal and have looked dominant throughout the competition.

Belgium’s path has been far less straightforward. They entered the group stage after draws with Egypt and Iran before coming from behind to beat Senegal. However, confidence has grown after Monday’s emphatic 4-1 win over co-hosts the United States in the round of 16.

Garcia embraced Belgium’s underdog tag as he looked ahead to the showdown.

“Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it,” said the coach.

“We think we can pull it off, and we’re going to do everything we can to get to the semis.”

The Belgian boss also highlighted his team’s attacking threat. Belgium have scored 13 goals at the tournament, with only France and Argentina finding the net more often. Their tally of 107 shots is second only to France, who have played one extra match.

Garcia dismissed suggestions that a largely American crowd in Los Angeles could create a hostile atmosphere after Belgium knocked out the hosts.

“We just beat the US, obviously, and again at a stadium where everyone was against us. So I don’t think the conditions will be any more difficult tomorrow,” said the coach.

He added: “It’s not the fans that score the goals. We’re going to focus on what we can do. We’ve got enough on our plate with the Spanish squad, which is a wonderful footballing team.

“And even if we’re the underdog for tomorrow, we’re going to do everything we can to give them a run for their money.”

Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku shared his manager’s confidence, insisting Belgium have not reached the last eight simply to make up the numbers.

“If you manage to get this far, then you’re not going to play a game just to go home,” he said.

“I think we also have the necessary talent. Tomorrow we need to play the perfect game.”