FIFA World Cup 2026- Spain beat Belgium in a high octane clash , reach semis
Spain 2–1 Belgium Spain continued their impressive FIFA World Cup campaign by defeating Belgium 2–1 in a pulsating quarter-final at Los Angeles Stadium, booking a blockbuster semi-final against France. In a contest between two of Europe's strongest attacking sides, Spain's superior possession and relentless pressure eventually proved decisive, with super-sub Mikel Merino once again emerging as the match-winner after his heroics against Portugal in the Round of 16. Spain dominated the opening exchanges, with Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo constantly stretching the Belgian defence. Thibaut Courtois made several excellent saves to deny Yamal and Álex Baena, but he could do nothing in the 30th minute when Dani Olmo's powerful effort was parried into the path of Fabián Ruiz, who reacted quickest to drive the rebound into the roof of the net from close range and hand Spain a deserved 1–0 lead. Belgium weathered the early storm and gradually grew into the contest. Against...