Spain eliminate Belgium... set up fiery semi-final clash with France

Spain secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-final match played at the Los Angeles Stadium in the United States.

Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute, before Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium in the 41st minute, ending the first half with a 1-1 draw.

As the match seemed to be heading toward extra time, Mikel Merino snatched the winning goal for Spain in the 88th minute, sending his team through to the semi-finals.

Spain entered the clash with an impressive defensive record, having not conceded a goal since the tournament began, until Belgium managed to break their resistance during the match. Spain had reached the quarter-finals with a 1-0 victory over Portugal, while Belgium advanced after defeating the United States 4-1.

With this win, Spain will face France in the semi-finals, scheduled for July 14 at the Dallas Stadium, in a battle for one of the two spots in the 2026 World Cup final.