Spain Edge Belgium to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium, setting up a blockbuster showdown against France in Dallas.

Luis de la Fuente's side took the lead through surprise starter Fabian Ruiz, who capitalised on a rebound after Thibaut Courtois denied Dani Olmo's initial effort. Spain continued to press, with Lamine Yamal causing constant problems and narrowly missing with a curling strike.

Belgium responded just before halftime. Kevin De Bruyne's perfectly weighted pass released Timothy Castagne, whose pinpoint cross found Charles De Ketelaere. The forward timed his run to perfection before heading home the equaliser.

The match turned in Spain's favour after Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured in the 71st minute. Substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsi's long-range effort, allowing Mikel Merino—introduced only moments earlier—to pounce on the rebound and score the decisive goal.

Lamine Yamal earns the Superior Player of the Match trophy. 👑

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/fhH91Ws0ES

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 10, 2026

Lamine Yamal was named Player of the Match after another dazzling display that helped Spain control key moments of the contest.

After the match, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team's resilience and backed them to challenge France in the semi-finals.

"It's the character of the team. It's an honour to coach a team so committed and eager to improve. It's fair to think we can beat France. We're going to work hard for it. We're the only team that has managed to beat them twice. A great team is going to face another great team."

Spain will now meet France in what promises to be one of the biggest FIFA World Cup semi-finals in history.