Spanish and Belgian supporters in Jamaica set plans for World Cup quarter-final

Spain arrive at today’s World Cup quarter-final against Belgium carrying the label of strong favourites, but that standing has stirred plenty of nerves among their supporters. The two European sides face off at Los Angeles Stadium in California with heavy pressure resting on the shoulders of those cheering them on.

One supporter following the action from Jamaica is Guillermo Suarez, who is linked to the Riu hotel group on the island. He told The Gleaner he intends to watch the match at the sports bar at Riu Negril.

“I’ll be there with several Spanish colleagues who also live and work in Jamaica, and I’m sure there will be plenty of other football fans supporting Spain as well. It should be a great atmosphere, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing such an important match surrounded by fellow Spaniards and football lovers,” said Suarez.

Spain’s last World Cup title came in 2010, a full 16 years ago. The team rebounded from a worrying goalless draw with Cabo Verde in their opening fixture to secure a place among the final eight.

“At the beginning of this tournament, I wasn’t very confident because our first few matches were tougher than expected. However, after seeing the team improve – and especially after beating Portugal – my confidence has grown a lot,” Suarez said. “I know there are still some very strong teams left, so it won’t be easy, but I genuinely believe Spain has what it takes to go all the way and lift the trophy again.”

He is pinning his hopes on what he sees as the depth and balance across the Spanish squad.

“I think Spain’s biggest strength is that we don’t depend on just one player. We have a talented and well-balanced squad. Mikel Oyarzabal has been crucial with his work rate and ability to score important goals. Pau Cubarsí, despite his young age, has shown incredible maturity in defence and gives the team great composure when building from the back. Of course, players like Lamine Yamal and Pedri – who is also like me, from the Canary Islands – can also make the difference with their creativity and quality. If everyone performs at their best and we continue playing as a team, I truly believe Spain has what it takes to win the World Cup,” Suarez asserted.

Among those backing Belgium to upset the odds and claim a first World title is Guillaume Gillard, deputy head of mission at the Belgium Embassy in Kingston.

“I will be going to a place called Club House with giant television screens. Most of the Belgians will be there – about 20 people in Kingston (Embassy) plus other Belgian fans, so about 40 people. Of course, all Jamaicans that want to watch the match are welcome,” Gillard told The Gleaner.

Gillard said the Red Devils should approach the tie in a calm mood, free from the burden of favourite status, even with King Phillippe set to attend today’s match.

“We are not the golden generation, but they are really good, which is a surprise for me. Belgians don’t like to boast, so I won’t pretend that the game will be easy. We are facing the current European champions, so we are not expecting something easy. Our chances are not that big, but if it happens, we will be really glad,” said Gillard.

He also stressed that collective effort, rather than individual brilliance alone, will decide the outcome.

“It’s been a team effort. As we saw with Senegal, some of the stars needed to be replaced by fresh blood so everyone played a role so far in our success. Of course, some of our big stars shone a little more, no surprise there, and we hope they continue their quality work. But everyone has contributed in that group and as a group, they will make it, and not because of individuals. That is not that kind of team. Not this time,” said Gillard.

Today’s match starts at 2 p.m., with live coverage on TVJ and updates on The Gleaner’s website and social media pages.