Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in Friday’s quarter-final clash at Los Angeles Stadium.
The Spaniards dominated possession for much of the encounter and took a deserved lead in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to convert a rebound after Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had made an initial save.
Belgium responded strongly and restored parity four minutes before the break. Charles De Ketelaere headed home from close range after a well-worked move involving Jérémy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne, sending the teams into halftime level at 1-1.
Spain continued to dictate the tempo in the second half, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal causing constant problems for the Belgian defence. Belgium’s hopes suffered a major setback when Courtois was forced off with a thigh injury, handing substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens an unexpected appearance.
The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when substitute Mikel Merino capitalised on a rebound spilled by Lammens to fire Spain into the lead and secure a hard-fought victory.
Belgium pushed forward in search of a late equaliser, but Spain’s disciplined defence held firm to preserve the advantage and send Luis de la Fuente’s side into the last four.
The victory keeps Spain’s impressive unbeaten run intact and sets up a mouth-watering semi-final showdown against France, while Belgium exit the tournament after a spirited campaign.
