The goals, minute by minute
- 30'Fabián RuizGoal · 1-0
- 41'Charles De KetelaereGoal · 1-1
- 88'Mikel MerinoGoal · 2-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Spain (1st Group H, European champions) vs Belgium (1st Group G, thrashed USA 4-1) · quarter-final
Team level
Spain: the best collective in the tournament (Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Nico Williams); possession and pressing.
Belgium: pedigree and goals (De Bruyne, De Ketelaere, Lukaku); arriving hot after a rout.
Key factors
- Spain controls the game and combines better.
- Belgium strikes in transition and through De Bruyne's magic.
- A cracker; Spain a slight favourite for its structure.
Prediction
Result in 90': 1-1 (alternative: 2-1 Spain)
- Spain win: ~48%
- Draw: ~28%
- Belgium win: ~24%
Advances: Spain (~58%)
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal, the difference-maker (beware De Bruyne).
Final verdict, Confidence: medium
The tie of the quarters. Spain is a slight favourite for its play and balance, but
Belgium has the pedigree and goals to pull it off. Penalties are on the table.