​Dani Olmo is staying focused on Spain’s looming quarter-final clash with Belgium, aiming for World Cup glory without looking too far ahead. The 2010 champions will meet the 2018 semi-finalists in Los Angeles on Friday night, fully aware that maintaining concentration is essential if they are to push for the title again. In an interview published on the Spanish Football Federation’s official site, the Barcelona midfielder stated, “We are thinking solely and exclusively about the quarter-final match. To reach the semi-finals, we will have to beat a great team. Belgium is a very complete side. They have one of the best goalkeepers in the world—Thibaut Courtois—and players who can change the game in every position.” He added that qualifying for a World Cup semi-final represents one of the most significant matches of his career and that Spain is prepared for the challenge, affirming, “Our goal is to win the World Cup, and to achieve that, we first have to overcome Belgium.”
Spain entered the tournament ranked third in the world by FIFA, five places above Belgium. While a shaky start against the unexpected Cape Verde outfit sparked questions about their status as a frontrunner, La Roja has responded with four consecutive wins since, the latest a hard-fought 1-0 victory over neighboring Portugal. They will face Belgium, who have won each of their last six meetings with Spain and remain unbeaten in 35 encounters, with a sense of caution and respect. Olmo emphasizes the approach of treating every match like a final, noting that the manager constantly reminds the players that the next game is the most important one. “Reaching that number makes us very happy, but we want to extend it as long as possible, hopefully beyond the final,” he said.
On the Belgian side, Eden Hazard—who endured Belgium’s 1-0 semi-final defeat by France in St. Petersburg eight years ago—is cautiously optimistic about his nation’s chances this time around. Speaking with Marca, Hazard expressed belief in Belgium’s talent and potential to surprise and go deep in the World Cup, insisting that the squad benefits from a strong blend of youth and experience. He acknowledged the absence of both Hazard brothers, but said he hopes the pair will go all the way and lift the trophy. Hazard conceded that the path will be challenging but remained hopeful that Belgium could reach the final and possibly win the World Cup. If not, he suggested that Spain could also make a strong run, noting that the outcome remains to be seen.
As the quarter-final showdown draws near, both teams are buoyed by their recent form and the weight of expectation that accompanies a World Cup campaign. Spain’s offense will look to maximize their strengths, while Belgium will rely on their depth and experience to challenge an in-form opponent. The match in Los Angeles on Friday night promises to be a pivotal moment in this tournament, with a place in the semi-finals and a chance at global glory on the line for both sides.