Omanghana
Spain booked their place in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in an entertaining quarterfinal clash at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The all-European showdown lived up to expectations, with Spain overcoming a resilient Belgian side thanks to a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino.
Fabián Ruiz Opens the Scoring
La Roja took the lead in the 30th minute through midfielder Fabián Ruiz. The goal came after Dani Olmo’s powerful effort was deflected into the path of Ruiz, who reacted quickest to slot home the rebound and hand Spain a deserved 1-0 advantage.
Spain controlled much of the first half, creating several promising opportunities while keeping Belgium under sustained pressure.
Belgium Respond Before the Break
Belgium found their equalizer just before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere. The forward rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross and powered a header past the Spanish goalkeeper in the 41st minute.
The goal was particularly significant as it ended Spain’s remarkable defensive run in the tournament. It was the first goal La Roja had conceded at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to a record 649-minute World Cup clean-sheet streak.
Injury Blow for the Red Devils
Belgium’s hopes suffered a major setback due to injury concerns.
Captain Youri Tielemans was ruled out after picking up an injury during the pre-match warmup, forcing a late change to Belgium’s lineup.
The situation worsened in the second half when veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off the pitch in the 71st minute with a leg injury. The experienced shot-stopper left the field visibly emotional, with backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens taking over between the posts.
Mikel Merino Delivers Again
With extra time looming, Spain found the decisive breakthrough in the closing stages.
Substitute Mikel Merino, who also made a decisive impact in Spain’s previous knockout match, once again proved to be the difference-maker. In the 88th minute, Senne Lammens failed to deal with a dangerous ball inside the penalty area, allowing Merino to pounce on the loose ball and fire home the winning goal.
The late strike sealed a hard-fought 2-1 victory and sent the Spanish supporters into celebration.
Spain Set Up Semifinal Clash with France
The victory sends Spain into the FIFA World Cup semifinals, where they will take on France in another blockbuster European encounter.
The semifinal is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
Football fans can relive the excitement by watching the match highlights and all three goals from this thrilling World Cup quarterfinal encounter.
Source: Omanghana
