Spain Reaches World Cup Semi-Final With 2-1 Win Over Belgium

Spain has advanced to the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium at the Los Angeles Stadium. The winning goal was scored by substitute Mikel Merino in the 90+7’ minute, securing Spain's spot in the last four.

The match began with a strong start from Spain, as Fabian Ruiz scored the opening goal after Thibaut Courtois parried Dani Olmo's effort. Ruiz reacted quickly to convert the rebound, giving Spain an early lead. Lamine Yamal then came close to doubling Spain's lead, but his shot fired narrowly wide.

However, Belgium weathered Spain's pressure and found an equaliser just before half-time through a swift counter-attack. Kevin De Bruyne unlocked the defence with an incisive pass to Timothy Castagne, whose pinpoint cross was met by Charles De Ketelaere with a well-timed header. The goal shifted the momentum, and the teams went into the interval level.

The contest remained finely balanced until Belgium suffered a major setback when Courtois was forced off injured in the 71st minute. His replacement, Senne Lammens, failed to gather Pau Cubarsí's powerful strike from distance, allowing Merino to pounce on the loose ball and rifle home the winner.

Belgium searched desperately for another equaliser, but Spain defended resolutely to preserve their lead and book a place in the last four. The victory underlined Spain's resilience as they overcame a determined Belgian challenge in a tense knockout encounter.

Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, made a surprise decision to start Ruiz ahead of Pedri, which paid off almost immediately. The midfielder's goal gave Spain an early lead, and his performance was crucial in the team's victory.

The win sets up a mouth-watering semi-final against France, a fixture worthy of football's biggest stage. Spain is now just one win away from another World Cup final after navigating a demanding quarter-final test. The semi-final match will take place at the Dallas Stadium, and it promises to be an exciting encounter between two of the world's top football teams.

Spain's victory is a testament to their strength and determination, and they will look to carry this momentum into their semi-final match against France. With their eyes on the prize, Spain will be eager to make it to the World Cup final and bring home the coveted trophy.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has been an exciting tournament so far, with many thrilling matches and unexpected results. Spain's victory over Belgium is just one of the many highlights of the tournament, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the semi-final match against France.

In conclusion, Spain's 2-1 win over Belgium has secured their spot in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. With their resilient performance and determination, they will be a strong contender in the upcoming semi-final match against France. The stage is set for an exciting encounter, and fans will be on the edge of their seats as they watch these two football giants clash.

The significance of this win for Spain cannot be overstated. It marks a major milestone in their World Cup campaign and sets them up for a potentially historic encounter against France. As the tournament progresses, Spain will be looking to draw on their experience and skill to overcome their opponents and bring home the World Cup trophy.

For now, Spain can bask in the glory of their hard-fought victory over Belgium. The team's performance was a testament to their strength and determination, and they will be eager to carry this momentum into their semi-final match against France. The world will be watching as these two football giants clash in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.