Who was withdrawn and why?

Belgium announced on July 9 that Youri Tielemans suffered a hamstring injury during warm‑up for the quarter‑final against Spain. The staff had to pull him from the starting eleven, forcing a last‑minute change. Kevin De Bruyne retook the captain’s armband, while Hans Vanaken stepped into the midfield slot.

Which players are now starting?

Alongside Vanaken, Jeremy Doku joins the starting lineup, pushing Dodi Lukebakio onto the bench. Thibaut Courtois remains in goal, and the back line features Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper, Timothy Castagne and Nathan Ngoy. In midfield, Kevin De Bruyne, Hans Vanaken, Nicolas Raskin, Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere and Jeremy Doku form the new Belgian XI.

Why did Spain also make a change?

Coach Luis de la Fuente surprised by benching Pedri. Fabián Ruiz replaces him alongside Rodri and Dani Olmo. Spain lines up Unai Simón in goal, a defence of Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella, and an attack led by Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal.

What does this mean for the match?

Tielemans’ absence robs Belgium of a creative passer, but Vanaken brings physicality and a long‑range shot. De Bruyne, now captain, must orchestrate play and rally his teammates. Spain’s benching of Pedri yields a tighter midfield, potentially making Belgian breakthroughs harder. The quarter‑final on July 10 in Ingold promises an intense tactical duel between two sides chasing a semi‑final spot.

What can we expect from the outcome?

If Belgium exploits its bench depth, especially through Doku and Trossard, they could create decisive chances. However, losing Tielemans may blunt their transition fluidity. Spain, with a reinforced midfield, will aim to control tempo and limit space. The result will decide who moves on in the 2026 World Cup.