Spain Beat Belgium 2-1 to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals
Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in an exciting quarter-final played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The match was filled with intense action, outstanding saves, and a late winner from Mikel Merino, who once again proved to be Spain’s super substitute.
La Roja showed resilience and determination throughout the contest, overcoming a strong Belgian side to keep their dream of lifting a second FIFA World Cup trophy alive. Spain will now face France in the semi-finals, with a place in the July 19 World Cup final on the line.
Spain Beat Belgium 2-1 to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals After Late Drama
Spain entered the quarter-final as one of the tournament favorites after an impressive unbeaten run. Belgium, however, were equally confident, carrying an 18-match unbeaten streak into the match.
The game started at a high tempo, with both teams creating early opportunities. Spain controlled possession while Belgium looked dangerous on the counterattack.
The breakthrough arrived in the 30th minute. Dani Olmo’s powerful effort forced Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into a save, but Fabian Ruiz reacted quickest to score from the rebound and give Spain a deserved 1-0 lead.
Belgium refused to back down. Just before halftime, Charles De Ketelaere headed home Timothy Castagne’s cross to level the score at 1-1, ending Spain’s remarkable run without conceding a goal in the tournament.
Mikel Merino Delivers Another Match-Winning Performance
Mikel Merino once again became Spain’s hero after coming off the bench late in the second half.
Having already scored a dramatic winner against Portugal in the Round of 16, Merino repeated his impact against Belgium. Introduced in the 86th minute, he needed only a couple of minutes to make the difference.
In the 88th minute, Pau Cubarsi fired a low effort that substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold. Merino reacted instantly, smashing the rebound into the net to send Spain into celebration.
The goal highlighted Merino’s excellent positioning, composure, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial moments.
First World Cup Semi-Final Since 2010
Spain’s victory marks their first appearance in a FIFA World Cup semi-final since winning the tournament in South Africa in 2010.
The current generation of Spanish players has impressed throughout the competition with disciplined defending, technical quality, and attacking creativity. Their unbeaten run has now stretched to 36 matches, just one short of Italy’s international record of 37 games.
The result also ended Belgium’s impressive 18-match unbeaten streak, bringing their World Cup campaign to an emotional conclusion.
Fabian Ruiz Opens the Scoring
Fabian Ruiz rewarded coach Luis de la Fuente’s faith after being selected ahead of Pedri in midfield.
The midfielder remained alert inside the penalty area to convert the rebound after Courtois denied Dani Olmo’s first attempt. Ruiz controlled the midfield throughout the game, combining intelligent passing with tireless defensive work.
His early goal gave Spain confidence and forced Belgium to push forward.
Belgium Fight Back Before Half-Time
Belgium responded brilliantly despite falling behind.
Timothy Castagne delivered a dangerous cross from the right side, finding Charles De Ketelaere inside the penalty area. The Belgian forward outmuscled Pau Cubarsi before powering a header beyond Unai Simon.
The equalizer changed the momentum of the match and ensured both teams entered halftime level.
Lamine Yamal Continues to Shine
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal once again demonstrated why he is considered one of football’s brightest young talents.
The winger repeatedly troubled Belgium’s defense with his pace, dribbling, and creativity. He came close to scoring on multiple occasions, narrowly missing the target from long range before forcing excellent saves from Courtois.
Although Yamal did not score, his constant attacking threat stretched Belgium’s defense and created valuable space for his teammates.
Courtois Injury Changes the Match
Belgium suffered a major setback when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an apparent leg injury in the 71st minute.
Substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens entered the match and produced several important saves. However, his inability to hold Pau Cubarsi’s late shot allowed Merino to score the decisive goal.
Courtois had been one of Belgium’s best performers before his injury, making four outstanding saves to keep his team in the match.
Spain’s Defense Stays Strong
Despite conceding for the first time in the tournament, Spain’s defense remained solid under pressure.
Aymeric Laporte produced one of the game’s biggest defensive moments when he cleared the ball off the goal line during second-half stoppage time after goalkeeper Unai Simon was beaten.
Spain also relied on excellent defensive organization from Robin Le Normand and Pau Cubarsi to limit Belgium’s attacking opportunities during the closing stages.
Key Players Who Made the Difference
Several Spanish players delivered standout performances:
- Mikel Merino scored the winning goal after coming off the bench.
- Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring and controlled midfield.
- Lamine Yamal constantly threatened Belgium’s defense.
- Dani Olmo created multiple chances throughout the match.
- Aymeric Laporte produced a crucial goal-line clearance.
- Unai Simon made important saves despite conceding once.
For Belgium, Charles De Ketelaere impressed with his equalizer, while Kevin De Bruyne continued to create opportunities despite Spain’s organized defense.
Spain vs France Semi-Final Preview
Spain will now face France in one of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
France are aiming for their third consecutive World Cup final after winning the title in 2018 and finishing runners-up in 2022. The semi-final promises to feature world-class talent on both sides, including Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, Dani Olmo, Antoine Griezmann, Fabian Ruiz, and several other stars.
With Spain carrying confidence from their unbeaten run and France boasting championship experience, football fans can expect one of the tournament’s most exciting encounters.
Final Thoughts
Spain’s 2-1 victory over Belgium was another demonstration of their strength, depth, and determination at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mikel Merino once again emerged as the match winner, while Fabian Ruiz, Lamine Yamal, and Spain’s disciplined defense all played vital roles in securing a place in the semi-finals.
La Roja are now only one victory away from reaching another World Cup final. As they prepare for a blockbuster clash with France, Spain will hope their momentum continues and that another memorable performance can take them one step closer to lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy once again.
External Links (Authority Websites)
- FIFA Official
- Reuters (Match Report)
- ESPN Football
- BBC Sport Football
- AP News Sports
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