Despite being eliminated by Spain, Rudi Garcia urged Belgium not to feel ashamed.

Belgium, nicknamed the "Red Devils," were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals after trailing but conceding a second goal in the second half thanks to a goal from De Cefelare. Coach Rudi Garcia stated in a post-match interview that defeat is a form of growth and that the players should not feel ashamed.

In the 30th minute, Olmo received a cross from Pedro Polo and shot, but it was saved by Belgian goalkeeper Courtois. Fabian Ruiz then followed up and scored, giving Spain a 1-0 lead.

In the 41st minute, Castagne received a through ball from De Bruyne and crossed the ball again, which De Ceftrare headed into the goal, leveling the score at 1-1 for Belgium. In the 88th minute of the second half, Pedri passed the ball to Pau Kubalsi, whose shot was blocked by Belgian goalkeeper Lamens. Merino then followed up and scored, giving Spain a 2-1 lead again.

Ultimately, Belgium lost 1-2 to Spain, failing to advance to the World Cup semi-finals.

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said, "It's actually very simple. We can be proud of this World Cup journey. Failure is also a form of growth, and we will learn from our defeats. I don't think we have anything to be ashamed of; the team really made things very difficult for Spain."

"Unfortunately, luck wasn't on our side. We lost our starting goalkeeper and our captain, and then De Bruyne had to leave the field early, all of which were completely outside our game plan. We took the initiative to put pressure on them and limited Spain's key players."

Rudi Garcia pointed out, "The players executed my tactical requirements perfectly. They completed the pre-match plan very well and played the game we wanted. But as I said, we also need a bit of luck in a game like this, and Lady Luck chose Spain over Belgium."

"Against a team of Spain's caliber, you not only need to play well, but also need a bit of luck. You can't give the opponent opportunities easily. Unfortunately, we still had a few such situations."

In addition, Rudi Garcia said, "I am very disappointed and feel sorry for the players who may never have the chance to represent the national team in the World Cup again, especially the veteran players who have been with the team in international competitions. I hope to take them as far as possible and give them a perfect farewell journey."

“It’s a real shame. This team deserved to go further in this World Cup. In fact, we came very close to taking the game into extra time. My players believed in themselves and never gave up until the very last moment of the game.”

Image source: Internet