Spain Edge Belgium 2-1 to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals

Spain secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final, booking their place in the semi-finals after a thrilling encounter in Los Angeles.
The match began with Spain dominating possession and creating several chances. Their pressure paid off in the 30th minute when midfielder Fabián Ruiz found the net to give La Roja a deserved 1-0 lead. Belgium, however, responded strongly and equalized before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home from a Timothy Castagne cross in the 41st minute.
The second half was fiercely contested, with both teams pushing for a winner. Spain continued to control the ball, while Belgium relied on quick counterattacks led by Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku. A major turning point came when Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury, leaving backup keeper Senne Lammens to take over.
As the match appeared headed for extra time, Spain struck late. In the 88th minute, substitute Mikel Merino reacted quickest after Lammens spilled a shot from Pau Cubarsí, firing home from close range to make it 2-1. The goal sent Spanish fans into celebration and proved to be the decisive moment of the game.
Spain's disciplined defense held firm in the closing minutes, preventing Belgium from finding a second equalizer. The victory extended Spain's impressive unbeaten run and earned them a place in the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face France in a highly anticipated clash.