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 the run of play, they restored parity in the 41st minute. Right-back Timothy Castagne delivered a superb cross from the right flank, and Charles De Ketelaere timed his run perfectly before powering a header beyond Unai Simón. The goal ended Spain's remarkable run without conceding in the tournament and ensured the teams went into the interval level at 1–1. 


The second half remained finely balanced, although Spain controlled possession and created the better opportunities. Belgium suffered a major setback when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with a leg injury and was replaced by Senne Lammens. Spain sensed the opportunity and piled on the pressure. Their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute when defender Pau Cubarsí unleashed a speculative long-range effort that Lammens could only spill into the six-yard box. Mikel Merino, once again displaying his instinct for decisive moments, reacted quickest to stab the loose ball into the net and send the Spanish supporters into celebration. 


Belgium threw everything forward during stoppage time, with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku leading one final assault, but Spain's defence stood firm to preserve a deserved victory. Luis de la Fuente's side finished with a commanding advantage in possession and chances created, underlining why they remain among the favourites to lift the trophy. Spain advanced to the semi-finals, where they will face France in a mouth-watering clash between two European heavyweights. 


Goals

Spain 1–0: Fabián Ruiz (30')

Belgium 1–1: Charles De Ketelaere (41')

Spain 2–1: Mikel Merino (88') 


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