Preud'homme warns Belgium to beware of Spain's lethal efficiency

Michel Preud'homme, legendary Belgian goalkeeper and 1994 World Cup best keeper, has issued a caution to Belgium ahead of their quarterfinal clash with Spain. He draws parallels to 1986, when a struggling Belgium eliminated Spain en route to the semifinals. He warns that Spain's possession-based attack can be 'soporific' when slow, but devastating when they attack with depth.

Key observations

• On Spain's style: Preud'homme notes that Spain can be "frustrante y brillante"—frustrating when they hold the ball without purpose, but brilliant when they exploit spaces behind the defense Source: Infobae. He praises Mikel Merino for breaking Portugal's resistance, calling him a player who seeks space behind the lines Source: Infobae.
• On Belgium's strengths: After a poor start, Belgium showed a transformed performance against the USA: "velocidad, potencia, capacidad de reacción, mayor destreza técnica y un tremendo espíritu de sacrificio" Source: Infobae. Preud'homme believes the mental work has been excellent, citing De Bruyne's bench support Source: Lavanguardia.
• On Lamine Yamal: He admits Lamine Yamal is a constant threat: "Con un talento de este calibre, una sola acción basta para cambiar el rumbo de un partido" Source: Infobae.

Pressure and expectations

Preud'homme argues that reaching the quarterfinals is already a success for Belgium, while for Spain it is a minimum. This difference in pressure could give Belgium more tranquility Source: Lavanguardia. He stops short of predicting a winner, but notes the situation reminds him of 1986, when Belgium came from a weak group stage to upset Spain Source: Lavanguardia.