Spain overcame a determined Belgium side with a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino, securing a 2-1 victory and advancing to a highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal against France.
Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on Saturday, July 11, 2026, setting up a blockbuster last-four clash against France.
Spain controlled much of the contest and took the lead in the 30th minute when midfielder Fabián Ruiz finished off a flowing move to reward his side’s sustained pressure. Belgium responded strongly and drew level before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere, who capitalized on one of the few clear opportunities created by the Red Devils.
The match remained finely balanced throughout the second half, with Spain dominating possession and creating the better chances while Belgium defended resolutely and looked dangerous on the counterattack. Spain finished with 17 attempts on goal compared to Belgium’s five, while teenage winger Lamine Yamal continued to trouble the Belgian defense with his pace and creativity.
A turning point came in the 67th minute when Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with a quad injury. His replacement, Senne Lammens, was called into action repeatedly before an unfortunate mistake proved decisive late in the match.
Substitute Mikel Merino delivered the winning moment in the 88th minute after Lammens failed to hold onto a powerful effort, allowing the Spanish midfielder to convert from close range and send Spain into the semifinals. The goal marked Merino’s second decisive late strike as a substitute in the knockout rounds, making World Cup history.
Belgium, who had entered the quarterfinals after an impressive victory over the United States, were further hampered by injuries to several key players, including captain Youri Tielemans and midfielder Amadou Onana. Despite the defeat, they pushed one of the tournament favorites until the closing minutes.
The victory extends Spain’s impressive run in the tournament and keeps alive their hopes of lifting a second FIFA World Cup title after their triumph in 2010. They will now meet France in what promises to be one of the standout matches of the competition.
