Final blow from Spain to Belgium: De la Fuente's assessment of Unai Simón and the semi-final

In the 2026 World Cup quarter-final, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to secure their place in the semi-final. After the match, head coach Luis de la Fuente made important statements regarding his player choices and the course of the game. De la Fuente defended his surprising decision to start Fabián Ruiz in the first 11 instead of Pedri. This choice resulting in a goal in the first half justified the coach's analysis and strategic approach. The on-field discipline and mutual trust of the Spanish players stood out as the fundamental factors that enabled them to win this tough struggle.

In the match, where mutual goal efforts continued, Belgian star Charles De Ketelaere made history as the first player to breach Spain's goal in the tournament. This goal was the first one conceded by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón, who had built a hard-to-break streak throughout the tournament. Despite this vulnerability ending his clean sheet record, De la Fuente spoke highly of his goalkeeper. By ranking him among the top five goalkeepers in the world, he expressed his unwavering confidence in Simón's abilities. Simón's indication of the defense's presence behind his own success revealed how high the team spirit is.

In his post-match evaluation, the head coach emphasized that he sees every match as a new challenge and that they analyze their opponents in detail. Stating that squad depth and player quality give them the freedom to implement these strategies, de la Fuente noted that star players display a professional attitude even when they stay on the bench. The fact that the Spanish national team has two players of equal quality for each position is considered a huge advantage in long marathons like a tournament. The players' reflection of the trust placed in them in their on-field performances is shown as the biggest proof that team chemistry is at a perfect level.

Following this result, Spain is preparing to face France in the semi-final. This mega clash will hold a special meaning as it will be played on Tuesday, which is France's national day. Acknowledging that France is an extremely strong and in-form team, De la Fuente expressed his respect for them. However, the Spanish coach, also confident in his own team's quality, stated that they fear no one and can achieve the desired result on the pitch. This matchup is eagerly awaited by the entire football world as one of the most critical matches of the World Cup that will determine the champion.

This tough victory against Belgium became one of the most important steps that strengthened Spain's claim in the tournament. Keeping their composure despite the pressure of the quarter-final, the Spaniards proved that they settle their system further with each passing match. De la Fuente's decisions, which seem radical but are planned in advance, constantly keep the team's dynamics high. Discipline in defense and effectiveness in attack will allow them to express themselves against another football giant like France. Taking strength from their team's consistent graph, Spanish fans expect a great victory in the semi-final and beyond.