Spain secured a dramatic place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after Mikel Merino’s late winner earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium in an entertaining quarter-final in Los Angeles.
The Spain vs Belgium clash appeared destined for extra time after Charles De Ketelaere cancelled out Fabián Ruiz’s first-half opener. However, substitute Merino once again proved Spain’s hero, scoring in the 88th minute after capitalizing on a costly mistake by Belgium’s replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
The victory sends Luis de la Fuente’s side into a mouthwatering semi-final against France, while Belgium’s impressive World Cup journey comes to an agonizing end.
Spain vs Belgium Delivers Quarter-final Drama
The Spain vs Belgium encounter brought together two of Europe’s strongest football nations in what promised to be one of the most competitive quarter-finals of the tournament.
Spain entered the match unbeaten and boasting the tournament’s best defensive record, having not conceded a single goal throughout the competition.
Belgium, meanwhile, arrived full of confidence after eliminating the United States in the Round of 16 and were determined to end Spain’s impressive run.
Both teams displayed patience in possession early on, with Spain controlling the tempo while Belgium looked dangerous on quick counter-attacks.
Fabián Ruiz Gives Spain the Lead
Spain eventually found the breakthrough in the 30th minute.
Midfielder Fabián Ruiz produced another composed finish to reward Spain’s dominance after a sustained spell of pressure.
The goal reflected the confidence with which Spain had controlled large parts of the first half, dictating possession and limiting Belgium’s attacking opportunities.
Ruiz’s strike continued his impressive tournament and looked set to preserve Spain’s perfect defensive record heading into half-time.
Belgium Hit Back Before the Break
The Spain vs Belgium contest took another twist four minutes before half-time.
Belgium finally broke through Spain’s previously impenetrable defence when Timothy Castagne delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area.
Charles De Ketelaere rose highest to power a header beyond the Spanish goalkeeper, scoring the first goal Spain had conceded during the entire tournament.
The equalizer completely changed the atmosphere inside Los Angeles Stadium and ensured both teams headed into the dressing room level at 1-1.
Belgium’s response highlighted their resilience and reminded Spain they faced one of Europe’s most talented squads.
Tight Second Half Produces Few Clear Chances
The second half of the Spain vs Belgium quarter-final was a tense tactical battle.
Spain continued to dominate possession but struggled to create clear openings against Belgium’s organized defence.
Belgium remained disciplined without the ball while looking to exploit opportunities on the counterattack through quick transitions.
As the match entered its closing stages, both managers introduced fresh legs in search of a decisive breakthrough.
Luis de la Fuente turned once again to Mikel Merino, whose dramatic winner against Portugal in the Round of 16 had already earned him hero status.
Belgium, however, suffered a major setback when first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured, bringing Senne Lammens into the match.
That substitution would ultimately prove decisive.
Spain vs Belgium: Merino Delivers Another Match-winning Moment
With extra time rapidly approaching, Spain found the winner in dramatic fashion.
Pau Cubarsí unleashed a powerful effort from around 25 yards that should have been comfortably handled by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Instead, the Belgian goalkeeper spilled the shot into a dangerous area.
Merino reacted quickest, pouncing on the loose ball before smashing the rebound into the roof of the net from close range.
The Arsenal midfielder celebrated wildly after scoring his second consecutive decisive knockout-stage goal.
Following his 91st-minute winner against Portugal in the last 16, Merino once again delivered when Spain needed him most.
His latest contribution ensured the Spain vs Belgium encounter ended with Spanish celebrations.
Belgium Left Heartbroken
Belgium produced another spirited display but were ultimately punished by one costly mistake.
The injury to Courtois proved significant, as Lammens could not prevent the decisive goal despite earlier looking composed after entering the match.
Charles De Ketelaere’s equalizer had given Belgium genuine hope of reaching the semi-finals, and they remained competitive throughout the contest.
However, football’s biggest tournaments are often decided by fine margins, and Merino’s late intervention denied Belgium the opportunity to force extra time.
Despite the disappointment, Belgium leave the competition having demonstrated quality and resilience throughout the tournament.
Spain Set Up Heavyweight Semi-final
The Spain vs Belgium victory now sets up one of the most anticipated matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain will meet France in the semi-finals in Dallas, with both European giants chasing a place in the World Cup final.
Luis de la Fuente’s team continues to impress with its balance of youthful talent and experienced leaders.
Although Belgium became the first team to truly test Spain’s defence, La Roja once again found a way to win under pressure.
Merino’s remarkable knack for scoring decisive goals has become one of Spain’s biggest strengths as the tournament reaches its climax.
Final Thoughts
The Spain vs Belgium quarter-final showcased exactly why knockout football remains so captivating.
Spain controlled large portions of the match but had to overcome Belgium’s resilience and the disappointment of conceding their first goal of the tournament.
Once again, Mikel Merino emerged as the difference-maker. His late winner against Portugal was no fluke, and his decisive strike against Belgium confirmed his reputation as Spain’s clutch performer during this World Cup.
Spain now head into a blockbuster semi-final against France full of confidence, knowing they have the quality, composure and match-winners capable of taking them all the way to the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.
