Spain Eliminate Belgium After Dramatic 2-1 Quarter-Final Victory

Spain book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after Mikel Merino’s late winner breaks Belgian hearts.

Spain 2-1 Belgium: Match Summary

Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final on 10 July, sealing a place in the semi-finals with a dramatic late winner from Mikel Merino. The European champions controlled large spells of the contest, yet Belgium refused to back down and pushed Spain until the closing minutes.

Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring during the first half before Charles De Ketelaere restored parity just before the break. As extra time looked increasingly likely, Merino struck in the 88th minute to send Spain into the final four, where a blockbuster meeting with France now awaits.

First Half: Spain’s Possession Pays Off

Spain started with their trademark possession-based football. Rodri dictated the tempo, while Lamine Yamal constantly threatened Belgium’s defence with direct runs and clever movement.

The breakthrough arrived in the 30th minute. Fabián Ruiz finished a well-worked move after Spain patiently pulled Belgium’s defensive line apart. The goal rewarded Spain’s dominance after several dangerous attacks.

Belgium responded positively instead of retreating. Kevin De Bruyne began finding more space between the lines, and the equaliser arrived six minutes before half-time. Timothy Castagne delivered an inviting cross, and Charles De Ketelaere powered a header beyond Unai Simón to make it 1-1.

Belgium Show Incredible Character

Belgium entered the match without fully fit midfielders Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans, making their task even more difficult. Despite those setbacks, Rudi Garcia’s side defended with discipline and looked dangerous on the counterattack.

Thibaut Courtois produced several excellent saves before suffering a muscle injury during the second half. His departure forced Senne Lammens into action during one of the tournament’s biggest matches. The goalkeeper handled the pressure well for most of his appearance but ultimately experienced a heartbreaking finish.

Merino Delivers Another Knockout Masterclass

As the match approached extra time, Spain continued to apply pressure.

Their persistence finally paid off in the 88th minute. Pau Cubarsí fired a low effort that replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens could only parry into danger. Mikel Merino reacted quickest and calmly converted the rebound to spark wild celebrations among the Spanish supporters.

The goal once again highlighted Merino’s reputation for delivering decisive moments in knockout football.

Match Statistics

Final Score: Spain 2-1 Belgium

Goalscorers

• Spain: Fabián Ruiz (30′), Mikel Merino (88′)
• Belgium: Charles De Ketelaere (41′)

Venue

• Los Angeles Stadium

Player of the Match

• Lamine Yamal, whose creativity and relentless attacking play continually troubled Belgium’s defence.

Tactical Analysis

Spain once again demonstrated why they remain among the tournament favourites.

Their midfield trio controlled possession for long periods, limiting Belgium’s opportunities while creating consistent attacking pressure. Rodri acted as the team’s anchor, Ruiz provided late runs into the box, and Yamal constantly stretched the Belgian back line.

Belgium defended courageously and remained dangerous through De Bruyne, De Ketelaere and Jérémy Doku. However, Courtois’ injury proved significant during the closing stages, forcing an unexpected change in goal at the worst possible moment.

Key Talking Points

Spain Continue Their Winning Run

Spain have now reached the FIFA World Cup semi-finals with another composed performance. Their balance between possession, defensive organisation and attacking quality continues to impress.

Belgium Exit With Pride

Belgium leave the tournament despite producing one of Spain’s toughest tests. Their experienced core fought until the end, while several younger players showed they can lead the next generation.

France Await Spain

Spain’s reward is a mouth-watering semi-final against France. Two of Europe’s strongest sides will now battle for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final.

What the Coaches Said

Spain’s camp praised the team’s patience and resilience after breaking down a determined Belgian defence late in the game.

Belgium manager Rudi Garcia described Courtois’ injury as a turning point, acknowledging that losing one of the world’s best goalkeepers changed the dynamics during the closing minutes.

Final Thoughts

Spain showed once again why champions often find a way to win even when matches become difficult. Belgium matched them for long periods, yet Spain’s depth proved decisive.

Fabián Ruiz gave Spain the early advantage, Charles De Ketelaere responded with an excellent equaliser, and Mikel Merino produced another unforgettable knockout goal when it mattered most.

With France waiting in the semi-finals, Spain remain firmly on course to lift another FIFA World Cup trophy.