Spain Edge Belgium 2-1 to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals; France Await

INGLEWOOD, California – Spain have stormed into the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals with a nerve-jangling 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium, courtesy of a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino.

La Roja struck first in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz found the back of the net with a crisp finish, sending the Spanish fans into raptures. But Belgium responded with urgency just before half-time, as Charles De Ketelaere pounced on a loose ball to level the score in the 41st minute—sending both sides into the break all square.

The match looked destined for extra time, but it was a moment of chaos in the Belgian goal that turned the tide. With Thibaut Courtois forced off early due to injury, substitute Senne Lammens took over in goal. His handling of a low drive from Pau Cubarsí in the 88th minute proved disastrous—he spilled the shot, and Merino, who had only stepped onto the pitch two minutes earlier, pounced on the rebound to smash home with his second touch of the game.

It was a moment of pure clinical finishing under pressure—a hallmark of Spain’s resilient performance throughout the tournament. The goal sent shockwaves through the Belgian ranks and sealed Spain’s passage to their first World Cup semi-final since 2010.

Now, they’ll face reigning champions France in a blockbuster last-four clash. The Spain vs France semi-final is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Dallas Stadium. The kick-off time is listed as 7:00 p.m. local time (which is CDT) on the official FOX listing, while another source states 3:00 p.m. ET.