Spain defeats Belgium 2-1 to reach World Cup 2026 semifinals
Spain advanced to the semi‑finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2‑1 quarter‑final victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute, and Belgium equalised through Charles De Ketelaere before half‑time.
In the closing stages, substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a low shot from Pau Cubarsi, allowing super‑sub Mikel Merino to tap in the decisive goal in the 88th minute. The win marks Spain’s first semi‑final appearance since their 2010 title.
Belgium entered the match missing several key players – midfielder Amadou Onana was out with a ruptured ACL and captain Youri Tielemans withdrew with a warm‑up injury. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off in the second half due to a thigh injury, adding to Belgium’s injury woes. Spain will now meet France in the semi‑final in Dallas.