Spain 2-1 Belgium: Full Match Report, Goals & Highlights | FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarterfinals
Spain 2-1 Belgium: Dramatic Quarterfinal Thriller at FIFA World Cup 2026
Featured Image: Intense action from Spain's 2-1 victory over Belgium in the 2026 World Cup Quarterfinals at SoFi Stadium.
Published: July 11, 2026 | By: Trendy News | Category: Football | World Cup 2026
In a pulsating quarterfinal clash at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Spain edged out Belgium 2-1 to advance to the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mikel Merino once again proved to be the hero with a late winner, mirroring his heroics in previous rounds, while Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring. Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium, but an injury to Thibaut Courtois shifted the momentum decisively.
Match Summary
Final Score: Spain 2 - 1 Belgium
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, USA
Date: July 10, 2026 | Quarterfinals
Goals:
Spain will now face France in the semifinals on July 14 in Dallas.
Pre-Match Build-Up and Expectations
Spain entered the match as one of the strongest favorites, boasting an unbeaten run and dominant performances throughout the tournament. Managed with tactical precision, La Roja showcased fluid possession football, high pressing, and youthful exuberance led by stars like Lamine Yamal. Belgium, relying on experience from Kevin De Bruyne and a solid defensive setup, aimed to disrupt Spain's rhythm and capitalize on counter-attacks.
The stakes were high: a place in the last four and a potential clash with France. Fans from both nations filled the iconic SoFi Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere under the California lights.
First Half: Spain Take Lead, Belgium Equalize
Spain dominated early possession, controlling the tempo with precise passing. In the 30th minute, Fabián Ruiz broke the deadlock. A shot from outside the box was parried by Thibaut Courtois, and Ruiz pounced on the rebound to slot it home. It was a deserved lead for the Spaniards.
Belgium responded brilliantly just before halftime. Charles De Ketelaere rose highest to head home a well-delivered cross, leveling the scores at 1-1. The goal injected belief into the Belgian camp, ending the half on level terms despite Spain's territorial advantage.
Second Half: Injury Drama and Merino's Heroics
The second half saw end-to-end action. Spain continued to press, with Lamine Yamal dazzling on the wing, creating multiple chances. However, a major turning point came around the 71st minute when Belgium's star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an apparent injury, reduced to tears as he left the pitch. His replacement, Senne Lammens, faced immediate pressure.
Spain ramped up the intensity. Substitute Mikel Merino, introduced late, made an instant impact. In the 88th minute, a shot from Cubarsà was spilled by Lammens, and Merino calmly turned the rebound into the net for the winner. The stadium erupted as Spain held on for the victory.
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