Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Belgium 2-1 in a dramatic quarter-final clash at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Substitute Mikel Merino struck the decisive goal in the 88th minute as the European champions extended their unbeaten run to 37 matches and set up a blockbuster last-four showdown against France.
Fabián Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute, converting a rebound after Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois denied Dani Olmo’s initial effort.
Belgium responded before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, who equalised in the 41st minute to end Spain’s remarkable 649-minute scoreless streak at the FIFA World Cup.
The Red Devils suffered a major setback before kick-off when midfielder Youri Tielemans sustained an injury during the warm-up and was replaced in the starting line-up by Hans Vanaken.
Belgium were dealt another blow in the 72nd minute after Courtois was forced off with an apparent injury, with backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens taking his place.
Spain eventually found the winner two minutes from time when Merino reacted quickest to tap home a loose ball after a mistake by the Belgian substitute goalkeeper.
Spain will now face France in the FIFA World Cup semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, July 14.Details later.
