Spain and Belgium clashed in a tasteful quarter-final encounter on Friday, with both European nations seeking to reach the World Cup semi-finals in a 1986 rematch. Both teams scored during the first half, but Merino's late winner helped La Roja advance to face France in the final four. Relive our liveblog to see how things unfolded.
Official lineups of Spain-Belgium Spain: Simon - Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella - Rodri (C), Fabian - Yamal, Olmo, Baena - Oyarzabal Belgium: Courtois - Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper - Raskin, De Bruyne (C), Vaneken, Doku - De Ketelaere, Trossard.
Spain progressed through the group stage with their characteristic possession-based football and attacking prowess. Luis de la Fuente's side have showcased the technical quality expected of the Spanish tradition, advancing from their group before navigating their Round of 16 encounter, with a clean sheet making it the best defense of the tournament. La Roja is seeking to replicate its attacking dominance at this stage of the tournament. Belgium, meanwhile, approach this quarter-final as experienced tournament participants. The Red Devils have built their campaign on defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency, advancing as one of the group winners or strong performers. Belgium will look to frustrate Spain's domination game and exploit their opportunities on the break to try and miraculously take their ticket to the 2018 semi-final rematch against France.
