Spain secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Belgium on Friday night to advance to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, setting up a high-stakes encounter with France.
The quarter-final clash, played at a packed SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, delivered intensity and drama as both sides battled for a place in the final four.
Spain opened the scoring in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, who calmly finished to give La Roja the early advantage.
However, Belgium responded strongly, leveling the score just before halftime as Charles De Ketelaere found the net in the 41st minute—marking the first goal Spain have conceded in the tournament.
With tensions rising and the match seemingly heading into extra time, a decisive moment arrived late in the game. A long-range effort from Pau Cubarsi slipped through the hands of Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, allowing Mikel Merino to capitalize on the rebound and slot home the winner.
The goal proved heartbreaking for Lammens, who had come on following an injury to first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the second half.
Courtois was seen consoling the young shot-stopper after the final whistle.
Despite being favorites, Spain were tested by a resilient Belgian side whose defense effectively neutralized young star Lamine Yamal for much of the game.
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Spain will now face France in the semi-finals in Arlington, Texas. The French side heads into the clash in strong form after defeating Morocco 2–0, with Kylian Mbappé continuing his impressive run in the tournament.
As the competition heats up, football fans can expect a thrilling semi-final showdown between two European giants.
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