Spain
Spain have been the most complete team in the tournament, combining Luis de la Fuente's controlled possession game with a defence that has kept five clean sheets in a row, their latest result a win over Portugal that Mikel Merino settled in stoppage time. In my opinion their midfield of Pedri, Zubimendi and Merino is the real reason opponents barely create, as Portugal managed under one expected goal against them. Lamine Yamal continues to stretch defences on the right and gives Spain a match winner in tight games. I expect de la Fuente to keep faith with the same disciplined shape that has yet to be breached.
Predicted Lineup: Simon; Porro, Laporte, Cubarsi, Cucurella; Rodri; Pedri, Olmo; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Baena.
Belgium
Belgium looked reborn against the United States, with Rudi Garcia's side scoring four to take their total to 12 goals over the last three games, though I would note the Americans handed them at least two goals through defensive errors. Kevin De Bruyne managed a minor fitness issue and missed that game while Jeremy Doku came off the bench, and I expect both to return here. My read on this is that Belgium carry a genuine threat through Doku's dribbling and De Bruyne's delivery, but they conceded twice to Senegal earlier and will find far less space against Spain. De Ketelaere leads the line and needs service that Spain rarely allow.
Predicted Lineup: Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Theate, De Cuyper; Vanakan, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; De Ketelaere
