In a tense and hard-fought FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal clash at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on July 10, 2026, Spain secured a 2-1 victory over Belgium to advance to the semifinals. Super-substitute Mikel Merino once again emerged as the unlikely hero for La Roja, netting the decisive goal in the 88th minute. This win sets up a tantalizing semifinal showdown against France, promising one of the most exciting matches of the tournament.
The match was a classic encounter between Spain's possession-dominant, technical style and Belgium's resilient, counter-attacking approach, hampered by significant injuries. Despite creating numerous chances, Spain's attack showed signs of wastefulness, a theme that could prove costly against stronger opposition like France. Yet, Merino's clinical finish and the team's depth ensured progression.
Match Recap: Goals, Drama, and Key Moments
The game kicked off with Spain asserting early control, as expected from Luis de la Fuente's side. Surprise starter Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute. A well-orchestrated move involving Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro created the opportunity; Dani Olmo's shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois, but the rebound fell perfectly for Ruiz to slam home. It was a deserved lead for Spain, who had dominated possession and territory.
Belgium, already depleted, refused to lie down. Charles De Ketelaere, enjoying an excellent tournament, leveled the score in the 41st minute. Timothy Castagne delivered a pinpoint cross, and De Ketelaere outmuscled young defender Pau Cubarsí to head home powerfully at the near post. This was Spain's first goal conceded in the entire World Cup, highlighting Belgium's threat on set pieces and crosses despite their absences.
The second half saw Spain ramp up the pressure, with Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal testing Courtois. The Belgian goalkeeper made crucial saves before being forced off in the 71st minute with a hip injury, replaced by Senne Lammens. This substitution would prove pivotal.
As the clock ticked down, Spain pushed for a winner. In the 86th minute, Merino was introduced. Just two minutes later, Pau Cubarsí unleashed a long-range effort. Lammens spilled the shot, and Merino pounced on the loose ball to fire home the winner. The scenes were euphoric—Spain had done it again, with their super-sub. Merino's second consecutive late winner (following his heroics against Portugal) cemented his status as a tournament impact player.
Tactical Analysis: Spain's Possession vs. Belgium's Fight
Spain controlled the ball for long periods, typical of their tiki-taka heritage evolved under de la Fuente. They created high-quality chances but struggled with clinical finishing, a recurring issue noted in their xG stats for the tournament (11 goals from 11.83 xG). Without a traditional No. 9, they rely on fluid movement from Oyarzabal (a converted winger) and Ferran Torres. This approach creates space for creators like Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Rodri but can leave them vulnerable in tight knockout games.
De la Fuente's bold decision to start Fabián Ruiz ahead of Pedri paid dividends with the opening goal. It underscored the squad's collective ethos—individual stars like Pedri accept rotation for the team's benefit. Rodri anchored midfield superbly, while the defense (Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte) held firm for the most part.
Belgium, missing key midfielder Youri Tielemans (groin injury in warm-up) and Amadou Onana (ACL earlier), plus Courtois' exit, showed immense character. Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated from midfield, Jeremy Doku threatened on the wing, and De Ketelaere led the line effectively before Romelu Lukaku's late introduction. Their equalizer demonstrated tactical discipline on transitions. Coach Domenico Tedesco can be proud of their effort, though injuries ultimately proved too much.
Player Performances and Standouts
Mikel Merino (Spain): Man of the match impact. Scored the winner within minutes of coming on. His energy and positioning off the bench have been game-changers.
Fabián Ruiz (Spain): Excellent start, scored the opener, and contributed to midfield control.
Charles De Ketelaere (Belgium): Tournament revelation. Scored and battled aerially (winning over 70% of duels).
Lamine Yamal (Spain): Bright and creative, though not at his club-level explosive best—more functional here.
Thibaut Courtois (Belgium): Heroic saves before injury; his exit shifted momentum.
Other notables included Rodri's dominance and Belgium's defenders like Nathan Ngoy and Brandon Mechele, who stood tall. Senne Lammens will rue his error, but such moments define knockout football.
Broader Context: Spain's Path and Challenges Ahead
This victory extends Spain's unbeaten run against Belgium and keeps their dream of a second World Cup title (after 2010) alive. They have been efficient but not always dominant in attack. Facing France in the semifinals (likely in Dallas) will be a stern test—Kylian Mbappé and company pose a massive threat. De la Fuente may need to tweak his forward options, perhaps giving Borja Iglesias more minutes for physicality.
Belgium's "Golden Generation" era, featuring stars like De Bruyne and Lukaku, appears to be winding down without a major trophy. Their run to the quarters was valiant, but questions linger about squad depth and injury luck. De Ketelaere, however, has boosted his stock significantly.
Historical Echoes and Tournament Significance
Spain's reliance on late drama echoes their Euro 2024 success and past World Cup resilience. Merino joins legends like Iniesta in delivering clutch moments. The match at SoFi Stadium, with its electric atmosphere (largely pro-Spain crowd), added to the spectacle of a U.S.-hosted World Cup.
For football fans, this quarterfinal exemplified why the World Cup captivates: underdogs fighting through adversity, tactical battles, individual brilliance, and heartbreak. Spain's wasteful finishing drew criticism, but their belief and squad harmony prevailed. Belgium's fans can hold their heads high for a competitive display.
Looking Forward: Semifinal Excitement
The Spain-France semifinal promises fireworks. Yamal urged that "France should fear us," signaling confidence. With Merino's momentum, a solid defense, and midfield mastery, Spain have every chance. Yet, they must address finishing issues—creating chances is one thing; converting them against elite defenses is another.
This 2-1 win was not just about advancement; it highlighted La Roja's evolution: pragmatic, deep, and clutch when it matters. As the tournament reaches its business end, Spain remain serious contenders. Belgium exit with pride, their players like De Ketelaere potentially entering new career chapters.
In summary, Mikel Merino's late strike sent Spain to the semifinals in a match defined by resilience, errors under pressure, and tactical nuance. La Roja advance, but improvements in attack will be essential for glory. The World Cup dream continues for Spain—vibrant, technical, and now battle-hardened.
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