Spain Faces Backlash for Dropping Pedri From World Cup Semifinal Lineup

Spain's national football team announced their starting lineup nearly two hours before their World Cup 2026 semifinal match against Belgium, surprising fans and media by excluding star midfielder Pedri. Instead, Fabian Ruiz was included in the midfield alongside Rodri and Dani Olmo, a combination coach Luis de la Fuente previously used during Spain's successful Euro 2024 campaign when Pedri was sidelined due to injury.

Spanish media reacted strongly to the decision, with Marca calling it a "big bombshell" to leave Pedri out of such a crucial game. DAZN's Andres Weiss described the move as "dangerous," noting the known challenges of integrating both Rodri and Pedri in the same lineup but expressing hope that de la Fuente would find a way to include both. Sport magazine also expressed surprise, stating that while Marino or Fran were expected to be dropped, few anticipated Pedri's exclusion. They criticized de la Fuente for not maximizing Pedri's potential as Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has done.

The decision marks a significant tactical shift for Spain, reverting to the midfield trio that secured the Euro 2024 title, albeit without Pedri's presence. The outcome of this lineup change will be closely watched as Spain aims to advance to the World Cup final. The match against Belgium is set for Friday evening, July 10, 2026.