World Cup 2026: Spain Beats Belgium 2-1, Advances to Face France in Semifinals

Right from the kickoff, Spain controlled the game with dominant possession, while Belgium chose to drop deep, organize a tight defense, and wait for counterattacking opportunities. Despite constant pressure, La Roja faced significant difficulties against their opponents' disciplined defensive setup.

After much effort, Luis de la Fuente's side finally found the opening goal in the 30th minute. Amid a scramble inside the box, Fabian Ruiz quickly fired a precise follow-up shot past Thibaut Courtois, putting Spain ahead.

However, Belgium responded swiftly. In the 40th minute, Charles De Ketelaere leaped high to head powerfully from a right-wing cross, beating Unai Simon and scoring the first goal Spain had conceded at the 2026 World Cup, leveling the match before halftime.

In the second half, Spain continued to press forward in search of a winning goal. Meanwhile, coach Rudi Garcia brought on Romelu Lukaku in the 60th minute, switching to a two-striker formation to add unpredictability to the attack. However, the turning point came against Belgium when goalkeeper Courtois suffered an injury and had to leave the field in tears in the 70th minute.

Just as the match seemed destined for extra time, super-sub Mikel Merino stepped up once again. Only minutes after coming on, the Spain midfielder scored in the 88th minute, sealing a 2-1 victory for La Roja with a cool finish inside the box.

The win extended Spain's impressive run at the 2026 World Cup and earned them a place in the semifinals, where they will face France. Meanwhile, Belgium's commendable journey in the tournament comes to an end.