Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final clash in Los Angeles on Friday.
Spain dominated much of the first half and took the lead in the 30th minute after Thibaut Courtois denied Dani Olmo’s initial effort. Fabian Ruiz reacted quickest to the rebound, firing the ball into the net to put Spain ahead.
Belgium responded before the break, with Charles De Ketelaere heading home Timothy Castagne’s cross in the 41st minute to level the score at 1-1.
The second half produced chances at both ends, with both goalkeepers making crucial saves. Belgium suffered a major setback in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with an injury and replaced by Senne Lammens.
The decisive moment came two minutes from full time when substitute Mikel Merino capitalised on a rebound after Lammens had saved Pau Cubarsí’s long-range strike. The midfielder calmly slotted home the winner in the 88th minute to send Spain into the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
