Spain are expected to field a strong and familiar lineup for tomorrow’s World Cup quarter-final against Belgium, with Luis de la Fuente likely to stick with the core that has carried La Roja through the tournament.
Having already overcome Austria and Portugal, Spain now face a run of European opponents on the road to the final, should they progress that far. Belgium, however, possesses enough quality to provide a stern test.
The Red Devils have come alive in the last 130 minutes of football. Two late goals forced extra time against Senegal, where they eventually found the winner, before a commanding victory over the hosts, the United States, boosted confidence within the squad.
Those performances, along with the Donald Trump dance, will give Kevin De Bruyne and company every reason to believe they can upset the favourites.
So, how will Spain line up in tomorrow’s fixture:
Predicted XI for game against Cape Verde:
Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
He has started every World Cup match, with Luis de la Fuente continuing to back him despite his recent form lagging behind that of Spain's other goalkeeping options.
Right back: Pedro Porro
The Tottenham defender has made the right back slot his own in this World Cup after it was initially handed to Marcos Llorente. He will continue and look to get forward, however may be pushed back by Jeremy Doku.
Centre back: Pau Cubarsi
Five consecutive clean sheets at the tournament with Barcelona fans looking for him to replicate his solidness next season.
Centre back: Aymeric Laporte
Laporte has also impressed, with his left-footed partnership in central defence allowing Spain to play out from the back with greater fluency.
Left back: Marc Cucurella
He offers just as much going forward as he does defensively. Arguably one of Spain's standout performers, he will continue to provide a constant threat down the left flank.
Central midfield: Rodri
Celebration against Bernardo Silva’s miss will be celebrated in Spain but not in Man City colours. Will be pivotal for Spain and how they play.
Centre midfield: Pedri
Had a poor game by his standards against Portugal and will look to improve his level tomorrow.
Centre midfield: Fabian Ruiz
The only change from the previous fixture as him and Mikel Merino influenced the game when brought on for the Barcelona pair. His technique favours him over Merino as Olmo is replaced.
Right wing: Lamine Yamal
He will look to stretch the back line and take on his full-back. He could find success if neither Doku nor Trossard consistently tracks back to provide defensive support.
Left wing: Alex Baena
The Atlético Madrid winger has impressed throughout the World Cup and, with fitness concerns surrounding Nico Williams, is expected to retain his place in the starting XI.
Centre forward: Mikel Oyazabal
He stated in the build-up that players can turn down Barcelona, hinting that his future may lie with Real Sociedad. Another impressive display, especially if accompanied by a goal or two, will only strengthen the speculation surrounding him.
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