Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals on July 10, 2026, at Inglewood, advancing to the semifinals where they will face France.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain by capitalizing on a rebound after Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saved an initial shot from Dani Olmo.
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Belgium equalized later in the first half through Charles De Ketelaere, who scored with a precise header from a cross on the right wing.
That goal was the first Spain conceded in the tournament.
The match was decided in the second half when Mikel Merino scored the winner.
He converted a rebound after Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens deflected a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsi.
Belgium faced lineup issues before kickoff. Youri Tielemans was injured during warmups, forcing Hans Vanaken into the starting squad.
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Later in the second half, Courtois left the pitch in tears due to an injury and was replaced by Lammens.
Spain dominated statistically, recording 14 total shots to Belgium's four, with a 5-2 advantage in shots on target.
Spain reached the quarterfinals by topping Group H with draws and wins, then defeating Austria 3-0 and Portugal 1-0 in the knockout rounds.
Belgium's campaign ended after they topped Group G and beat Senegal and the United States in the knockout stage.
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The remaining quarterfinal matches are scheduled for July 12, featuring Norway against England and Argentina against Switzerland.
