Spain produced a disciplined and determined performance to defeat Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final at SoFi Stadium on Friday night, booking their place in the last four of the global showpiece.
The 2010 FIFA World Cup champions showed their intent from the opening whistle and were rewarded in the 30th minute when midfielder Fabián Ruiz pounced on a rebound after Dani Olmo’s effort had been saved by Thibaut Courtois, firing Spain into a deserved 1-0 lead.
Belgium responded positively and found the equaliser just before the break. Charles De Ketelaere rose highest to head home Timothy Castagne’s inviting cross in the 41st minute, handing the Red Devils renewed belief as the teams went into the halftime interval level at 1-1.
The second half developed into an entertaining contest, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Spain dominated possession while Belgium looked dangerous on the counterattack through Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku.
As extra time appeared inevitable, Spain found the decisive breakthrough in the 88th minute. Substitute Mikel Merino reacted quickly after Belgian substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a shot, calmly slotting the ball into the net to send the Spanish supporters into celebration.
Belgium threw everything forward in the closing stages in search of another equaliser, but Spain’s defense held firm to secure a hard-fought victory.
The win sends Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face France, who eliminated Morocco 2-0 on Thursday to book their place in the last four.
Spain remain among the favourites to lift the World Cup trophy as they continue their impressive campaign, while Belgium’s hopes of winning a first FIFA World Cup title came to an end despite another spirited display.