Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles, setting up a blockbuster semifinal against France.
Match Summary
30′ – Spain 1-0: Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring with a composed finish after Spain controlled much of the first half.
41′ – Belgium 1-1: Charles De Ketelaere headed home the equalizer from a Timothy Castagne cross, ending Spain’s tournament shutout streak.
88′ – Spain 2-1: Substitute Mikel Merino pounced on a rebound after Belgium backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a shot, scoring the decisive goal.
Belgium suffered a major setback when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the match in the second half with a thigh injury, forcing Lammens into action. The late goal proved to be the difference.
Key Performers
Mikel Merino (Spain): Late match-
winning goal.
Fabián Ruiz (Spain): Opened the scoring and controlled the midfield.
Lamine Yamal (Spain): Constant attacking threat and one of Spain’s standout performers.
Charles De Ketelaere (Belgium): Scored Belgium’s lone goal.
What’s Next?
Spain moves into the semifinals to face France on July 14, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on the line.
