Spain vs Belgium, FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain produced another memorable performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Mikel Merino once again emerged as the match-winner, scoring a late goal to help Spain overcome a determined Belgian side and book a blockbuster last-four clash against France.
The Spanish side controlled possession for most of the contest, but Belgium fought hard until the very end in what turned out to be one of the most exciting matches of the tournament.
Fabian Ruiz puts Spain ahead
Spain made an energetic start and looked dangerous every time they moved forward. Their pressure finally paid off in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz found the back of the net. Dani Olmo’s initial attempt was pushed away by Thibaut Courtois, but Ruiz reacted quickly to the loose ball and calmly finished from close range to give Spain a deserved lead.
The goal reflected Spain’s dominance in the first half as they dictated the tempo with their quick passing and movement.
Belgium hit back before half-time
Belgium responded well after falling behind and gradually began creating opportunities of their own. Just before the interval, Kevin De Bruyne delivered a quality ball into the box where Charles De Ketelaere timed his run perfectly before heading past Unai Simón to make it 1-1. The equaliser gave Belgium fresh belief and ensured the teams went into the dressing room level.
Courtois injury proves costly
The second half remained evenly contested, with both teams searching for the winning goal. Belgium suffered a huge blow when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois picked up an injury and had to leave the field. His replacement, Senne Lammens, was immediately kept busy as Spain continued to press forward in search of another breakthrough.
Although Lammens produced a couple of impressive saves, Belgium struggled to cope with Spain’s sustained attacking pressure.
Merino strikes again to seal Spain’s victory
With extra time looking increasingly likely, Spain found the decisive goal just two minutes from normal time.
A powerful effort from Pau Cubarsí was only partially saved by Lammens, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to pounce on the rebound and fire the ball into the net.
Merino once again delivered in a crucial knockout match after previously scoring the winner against Portugal in the Round of 16, continuing his outstanding World Cup campaign.
Belgium’s late fight falls short
Belgium refused to give up after conceding late and pushed numbers forward in search of an equaliser. Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne both tried to create one final opportunity, but Spain’s defence remained composed under pressure and successfully protected their narrow advantage until the final whistle.
The victory sparked huge celebrations among the Spanish players, who moved one step closer to lifting the World Cup trophy.
Spain to face France in the semi-finals
Spain’s reward for defeating Belgium is a mouth-watering semi-final against France. Both teams have impressed throughout the tournament with attacking football and strong defensive displays, making the upcoming encounter one of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Belgium, meanwhile, bow out of the tournament after an impressive campaign in which they once again proved why they remain one of Europe’s strongest footballing nations.