Why is Pedri not starting vs. Belgium? Spain star benched for World Cup 2026 quarterfinal
Spain have been in exceptional form at the 2026 World Cup and remain one of the favorites to win the trophy.
Read more Spain vs. Belgium live score, result, highlights from 2026 World Cup quarterfinal game
Luis de la Fuente’s European champions have benefited from a largely settled lineup, not even conceding a goal in their progress from the group stage through to Friday’s game against Belgium in Los Angeles.
This made the decision to bench Barcelona star Pedri for the match especially difficult to understand.
The Sporting News looks at Spain’s starting lineup for this quarterfinal showdown and why Fabian Ruiz was preferred in midfield.
2026 WORLD CUP HQ: Latest World Cup news | Full World Cup schedule | Buy World Cup tickets
Read more Did Vikings row their boats? Sailing controversy strikes Norway fan celebration at World Cup
Why is Pedri not starting vs. Belgium?
Pedri was surprisingly left out of the Spain starting lineup to face Belgium at SoFi Stadium. Paris Saint-Germain’s Fabian Ruiz was preferred in central midfield alongside Rodri and Dani Olmo.
It was the sole change from De la Fuente’s lineup for the Round of 16 victory over Portugal.
The reason to drop Pedri to the bench was not initially clear. He and Fabian started the opening draw with Cape Verde, but Dani Olmo has been preferred to the PSG man ever since.
This is a developing story.
Comments