Spain edged Belgium 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal at Los Angeles Stadium, with Mikel Merino scoring a dramatic late winner. The result sends Spain into their first semifinal since 2010, while Belgium exit after a spirited but ultimately unlucky performance.
Official Lineups and Match Facts
- Spain Goals: Fabián Ruiz (30’), Mikel Merino (88’)
- Belgium Goal: Charles De Ketelaere (41’)
- Assists: Timothy Castagne (41’)
- Bookings: Pau Cubarsí (42’ YC), Kevin De Bruyne (84’ YC), Axel Witsel (90’ YC), Aymeric Laporte (90’ YC)
- Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, USA
- Possession: Spain 68% – Belgium 32%
- Player of the Match: Mikel Merino (decisive late strike)
Match Flow
Spain controlled the early stages, rewarded when Ruiz converted after Dani Olmo’s effort was parried. Belgium responded before halftime as De Ketelaere headed in Castagne’s cross. The second half was tense, with Belgium defending deep until Courtois was forced off injured in the 71st minute. His replacement, Senne Lammens, spilled a long-range effort from Cubarsí, allowing Merino to pounce in the 88th minute for the winner.
Turning Point
Courtois’ injury was the defining moment. His absence unsettled Belgium’s defense, and Lammens’ error directly led to Spain’s decisive goal.
Tactical Breakdown
- Spain: Luis de la Fuente’s side relied on midfield control through Rodri and Pedri, patiently probing Belgium’s defense. Their substitutions added energy and ultimately delivered the winner.
- Belgium: Compact and disciplined, they relied on De Bruyne’s creativity and counterattacks. Courtois’ injury disrupted their defensive stability at a critical moment.
Standout Performances
- Fabián Ruiz: Scored opener, dictated tempo in midfield.
- Charles De Ketelaere: Equalized with a well-timed header, Belgium’s main attacking threat.
- Mikel Merino: Super-sub, scored late winner, proving decisive once again.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spain Strengths: Midfield dominance, tactical patience, effective substitutions.
- Spain Weaknesses: Struggled to convert chances until late.
- Belgium Strengths: Defensive organization, counterattacking threat.
- Belgium Weaknesses: Vulnerable after Courtois’ injury, limited attacking depth.
Tournament Implications
Spain advance to face France in the semifinals, renewing a classic European rivalry. Belgium bow out after a strong campaign but will regret missed opportunities and Courtois’ untimely injury.
Spain’s resilience and Merino’s late heroics secured a historic semifinal berth, while Belgium’s hopes were undone by misfortune and defensive lapses.
Do you think Spain’s midfield control will be enough to overcome France, or will their reliance on late goals prove costly in the semifinal?
