Luis de la Fuente, coach of the Spanish national team, confirmed that his team's focus is entirely on facing Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, stressing that it is premature to talk about any other competitor, during the press conference preceding the match.
The Spanish coach explained that choosing the starting lineup is based on the needs of each match, and not based on the players' performance in the previous match. He said: “Choosing the lineup is the most difficult part of my job, because each player has different characteristics. We study the opponent well. We choose the most appropriate elements, and any change does not mean punishing a player, but rather looking for the best solution for the match.”
Regarding the growing talk about a possible confrontation against France in the semi-finals, de la Fuente confirmed that the Spanish team is only thinking about Belgium, saying: “France is not in our calculations now, and all our focus is on the Belgium match only.”
He pointed out that reaching the quarter-finals does not mean being satisfied with what has been achieved, adding: “We are happy with what we have presented so far, especially with the elimination of the teams.” Great, but we always aspire to provide a better level at every stage.”
The Spanish coach praised the strength of the Belgian national team, explaining that all of his players are active at the highest European levels, and said: “Belgium has distinctive elements and is accustomed to competition, so we expect a very difficult match.”
He also spoke about the importance of the goalkeeping position, praising Thibaut Courtois, and at the same time affirming his confidence in Unai Simon, David Raya and Juan Garcia, considering that the two teams They have some of the best goalkeepers in the world.
Regarding Spain being considered the most prominent candidate to qualify, he said: “I am not afraid of this classification, but knockout matches do not recognize nominations. You may play a great match and emerge in the end.”
De la Fuente admitted that he feels nervous before big matches, but he controls it thanks to confidence in the work he does, stressing that calm gives him the strength to make decisions.
He also stressed the importance of the human aspect within the group, indicating his admiration. With the ideas of Lionel Scaloni and Gustavo Alvaro in leadership and player management, he stressed that the success of any team begins with the spirit of the group before the technical aspects.
He stressed that the Spanish national team prepared well for the possibility of resorting to penalty kicks, explaining that the technical staff had drawn up a list of those who executed it, while leaving the final decision according to the circumstances of the match and the players on the field.
Regarding Pedri, he said: “I see him in very good condition, and even when he is not at his best he gives the team the desired rhythm, and he is a player.” It is important for us.”
He also praised Lamine Yamal, stressing that his best levels have not yet appeared, and added: “He has great enthusiasm, and we are trying to help him employ him in the right way. He played a mature match against Morocco, especially defensively, and he is still capable of providing more.”
He also praised the Argentine star Lionel Messi, considering him a role model for commitment and continued desire for success despite his long career.
He commented on: Gavi’s statements regarding his dream of scoring a goal with a pair of scissors in the World Cup final, saying: “I will be happy if that comes true, because it means that we have reached the final, and Gavi is a great player and has a distinctive personality.”