Spain have secured their spot in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Belgium 2-1 in a tense quarter-final on Friday. A late finish from Mikel Merino proved decisive for La Roja, bringing an end to Belgium’s strong run and keeping Spain’s hopes of claiming a second world title firmly on track.
Spain started with more purpose and took the lead in the 34th minute, breaking through as Fabián Ruiz converted calmly after sustained pressure. Belgium’s response came with a sharper tempo after the interval, and they found an equaliser in the 67th minute when Charles De Ketelaere powered a header into the net. The goal was Spain’s first conceded in the knockout stage.
As the contest headed toward extra time, Merino stepped up to decide matters. In the 88th minute, he made the most of a mistake by the goalkeeper to score Spain’s winning goal and spark celebrations among the Spanish coaching staff. Belgium pressed higher in pursuit of a late leveller, but Spain held their shape to close out a difficult victory.
Spain now move into the World Cup semi-finals, where they will meet France in a high-profile clash for a place in the final. France booked their route to the last four by defeating Morocco 2-0, setting the stage for a compelling showdown between two leading European sides.
