Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi finals after a dramatic 2 to 1 victory over Belgium in an intense quarter final clash played in Inglewood, California. A late goal from Mikel Merino secured the win and kept Spain’s dream of lifting the World Cup trophy alive.
Spain took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz reacted quickly to score from a rebound after Dani Olmo’s powerful effort was saved by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The Spanish side controlled much of the first half with confident passing and attacking football.
Belgium refused to back down and found the equaliser in the 41st minute. Charles De Ketelaere rose above the Spanish defence to head home a well delivered cross from Timothy Castagne, ending Spain’s impressive run without conceding a goal during the tournament.
The second half remained highly competitive as both teams created several chances. Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal came close to scoring on multiple occasions, but Courtois produced several outstanding saves before being forced off through injury in the 71st minute. Backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens entered the match and was immediately tested by the Spanish attack.
The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute. Substitute Mikel Merino, who had only been on the field for a few minutes, reacted fastest after Lammens failed to hold a shot from Pau Cubarsi. Merino smashed the loose ball into the net to give Spain a deserved late winner.
Spain also showed great determination in defence. Aymeric Laporte made a crucial goal line clearance during stoppage time to protect the lead, while goalkeeper Unai Simon delivered another composed performance despite seeing his remarkable clean sheet streak come to an end.
The victory sends Spain into the World Cup semi finals for the first time since winning the tournament in 2010. They will now face France in a blockbuster semi final, while Belgium’s 18 match unbeaten run comes to an end. Spain also extended their own unbeaten streak to a team record 36 matches, continuing their outstanding form on the biggest stage.
