Spain midfielder Dani Olmo stated that the team approaches every match as if it were a final, as they prepare to face Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal in Tennessee, USA. The match offers Spain a chance to reach the semifinals for the first time since their 2010 World Cup triumph.
Olmo Highlights Team Mentality
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on July 9, 2026, Olmo said, "We face every match as if it were a final, and that is how Luis (de la Fuente, the head coach) tells us. The most important match is the one that is coming up." He emphasized that maintaining their 35-match unbeaten streak is not the primary objective; rather, the goal is to "win it all" and earn a second star on their shirts.
Lamine Yamal's Rising Form
Olmo praised 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who has been pivotal for Spain despite arriving at the tournament with a hamstring injury. Yamal started on the bench but scored in his first group stage appearance against Saudi Arabia. In the round of 16 against Portugal, he registered three attempts on goal, including two on target, and helped maintain Spain's attacking threat. "I see Lamine doing well. He is gaining confidence after the initial problems, and he is getting better and better. He wants to prove himself, and he is going to give us a lot," Olmo said. He added, "We understand each other well on the field with or without the ball."
Defensive Solidity and Unai Simon's Record
Spain's defense has been outstanding, becoming the first team in World Cup history to record six consecutive clean sheets after their round of 16 victory over Portugal. Goalkeeper Unai Simon has gone 609 minutes without conceding, setting an all-time World Cup record. Olmo noted, "We are very happy about Unai's record, and hopefully we can keep a clean sheet." He also stressed the team's collective approach, saying, "We have said where all attack and defend."
Quarterfinal Clash Against Belgium
Spain will face Belgium at the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, on July 10, 2026. The winner advances to the semifinals, where they will face either France or Argentina. Spain's last World Cup semifinal appearance was in 2010, when they went on to win the tournament.
