Belgium coach Rudi Garcia insists his players are embracing the role of underdogs as they prepare for a daunting World Cup quarter-final against reigning European champions Spain.
Spain head into Friday’s clash in Los Angeles as overwhelming favourites after a flawless campaign that has seen them progress without conceding a goal. Their disciplined defence and fluid attack have made them one of the tournament’s standout teams.
Belgium, by contrast, have taken a more difficult path. They narrowly topped their group after draws against Egypt and Iran before fighting back to eliminate Senegal. Their confidence, however, grew significantly after a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States in the Round of 16.
Speaking ahead of the quarter-final, Garcia acknowledged the expectations surrounding the match but said Belgium had every reason to believe they could cause an upset.
“Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it,” Garcia said.
“We think we can pull it off, and we’re going to do everything we can to get to the semis.”
Despite Belgium’s inconsistent start, Garcia pointed to his side’s attacking record as evidence they should not be underestimated. Belgium have scored 13 goals in the tournament, placing them among the competition’s most prolific teams, while also creating a high volume of chances.
The Belgian coach also dismissed concerns that the crowd in Los Angeles could favour Spain after Belgium knocked out tournament co-hosts the United States.
“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,” he said.
“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 that is a wonderful footballing team.”
Even while recognising Spain’s quality, Garcia maintained that Belgium would not be intimidated.
“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 echoed his manager’s confidence, saying Belgium had 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,” Lukaku said.
“I think we also have the necessary talent. Tomorrow we need to play the perfect game.”
With Spain chasing another major international title and Belgium hoping to defy the odds, Friday’s quarter-final promises a compelling contest between one of the tournament’s favourites and a side determined to prove expectations can be overturned.
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