Spain secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in an intense quarter-final match.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against France on Tuesday night in Dallas.
Spain controlled the early tempo, consistently testing the Belgian backline.
The breakthrough came in the first half when a driving Spanish attack forced a sharp save from Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
Fabian Ruiz anticipated the rebound, converting a clinical finish to put Spain ahead 1-0 at the half-an-hour mark.
Belgium responded with increased attacking pressure and direct aerial play.
Before the halftime whistle, Charles De Ketelaere found space in the penalty area to connect with a powerful header, beating the Spanish goalkeeper to level the match at 1-1 at the 41st minute.
The equalizer shifted the momentum, leading to a highly contested second half with both sides trading close chances.
Injury and Substitute mistake decide the match
The game’s defining turning point occurred in the 71st minute when Belgium’s star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered an injury and was forced to exit the pitch.
Young substitute keeper Senne Lammens was brought on to defend the Belgian goal.
Spain immediately tested the replacement. Minutes later, Lammens failed to cleanly handle a shot, parrying the ball directly into the box.
Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino reacted quickly to tap home the loose ball, restoring Spain’s lead at 2-1 at the 88th minute.
Spain’s disciplined defense withstood Belgium’s final attacking push during stoppage time to seal the 2-1 victory.
Spain now shifts its focus to the semi-final matchup against France.
