Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in the quarterfinals in Englewood. The victory, secured by an 88th-minute goal from Mikel Merino, marks Spain’s first return to the final four since their 2010 championship run.
Mikel Merino and Fabian Ruiz Secure Semifinal Spot
Spain dominated ball possession throughout the match, though Belgium relied on counter-attacks to threaten the Spanish goal. According to match reports, Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a strike from outside the penalty area that deflected off Timoti Kastaanja before entering the net.
Belgium equalized in the 41st minute when Charles De Ketelaere headed in a cross from Kastaanja. This goal ended a 650-minute shutout streak for Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon, whose last conceded goal occurred during the 2022 World Cup group stage against Japan.
Injury to Thibaut Courtois Changes Game Momentum
The match shifted in the 63rd minute when Belgium’s starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered an injury. The Real Madrid starter was forced off the pitch, and Manchester United’s Senne Lammens entered the game in the 71st minute to replace him.
Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, utilized his bench in the 86th minute by introducing Mikel Merino. Two minutes later, Merino capitalized on a rebound after Lammens blocked a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsi, slotting the ball into the upper left corner to secure the 2-1 win.
Spain’s Road to the Final: France Awaits
Spain will now face France in the semifinals. France secured their own spot in the final four by defeating Morocco 2-0 in their respective quarterfinal match. This matchup pits two European powerhouses against each other for a place in the World Cup final.
Upcoming Quarterfinal Matchups
While Spain and France are set, the remaining semifinal slot will be decided by the winners of two other matchups:
- Norway vs. England
- Argentina vs. Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for Spain in the quarterfinal?
Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino scored the goals to defeat Belgium 2-1.
When was the last time Spain reached the World Cup semifinals?
Spain last reached the semifinals in 2010, the year they won the tournament.
Who will Spain play in the semifinals?
Spain will face France, who beat Morocco 2-0.
What do you think about Spain’s chances against France? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for real-time World Cup updates.
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