​Pedri, the Barcelona midfielder, has not shied away from embracing the “favorites” label as Spain presses toward the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. In a recent interview, the midfielder was candid about Spain’s expectations: from the outset, he stated that the team entered the tournament aiming to win it. Acknowledging the favorite tag, Pedri said there was no issue with that characterization. He emphasized, however, that despite recognizing their strong form, nothing would be handed to them and that hard work would continue to be essential moving forward.
Spain advanced past Portugal 1-0 in the round of 16 and are preparing to face Belgium next. Pedri highlighted that the Spanish side has repeatedly demonstrated that they deserve the designation of favorites, pointing to their defensive solidity and cohesive team play as proof. “We haven’t conceded a goal yet, and we are a very reliable team. We all work for the team, no one stops running, and that makes us a big family. We have to keep it up,” he noted. The midfielder’s comments reflected a belief that Spain’s collective performance—characterized by relentless pressing, disciplined organization, and mutual support—has earned them the right to be viewed as strong contenders.
Belgium, the upcoming opponent, arrive with their own impressive credentials after a dominant performance against the United States, a match that had excited local fans who considered the Americans potential dark horses on home soil. Pedri acknowledged the strength of Belgium’s squad, praising Thibaut Courtois as one of the world’s best goalkeepers and conceding that scoring against him would always present a challenge. Yet he stressed that Spain possess players with familiarity against Courtois, having found success against him in La Liga, which provides them with valuable insight into the goalkeeper’s tendencies.
As for a potential final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Pedri did not dismiss the prospect outright. He said he would gladly take part in such a clash, provided it would mean Spain had reached the final. Nevertheless, he tempered that excitement with a focus on the immediate objective: concentrating exclusively on Belgium and avoiding any risk of overconfidence. “But first, we have to focus solely on Belgium and not get overconfident,” he insisted.
Looking ahead, Pedri’s comments reflect a player mindful of the pressure that comes with leading a team regarded as one of the favorites, while also communicating a clear commitment to the present challenge. His remarks underscore Spain’s philosophy under current leadership: maintain intensity, execute a disciplined game plan, and respect each opponent as they pursue the ultimate prize in Qatar. The praised cohesion within the squad—an element Pedri repeatedly mentions as a cornerstone of their potential success—suggests that Spain will continue to rely on collective effort, rather than individual brilliance alone, as they navigate the remainder of the tournament.
In sum, Pedri’s reflections illustrate a balance between confidence and caution. Acknowledging Spain’s status among the favorites, he also reiterates the need for continued hard work, humble focus, and unwavering team unity as they prepare for Belgium and chart a path toward possible deeper rounds, including the thought of facing Argentina if the stars align for a final.