Spain beats Belgium 2-1 to reach World Cup semifinals

Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals on July 10, 2026, at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, securing a spot in the semifinals for the second time in their history Source: infobae; elconfidencial.

The Match

Spain took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz scored after a Pedro Porro run Source: abces. Belgium equalized, but Mikel Merino scored a late winner, described as 'in extremis' Source: infobae. The match was officiated by English referee Michael Oliver Source: euronewses.

The Context

Spain entered the match as one of the tournament's form teams, having kept a clean sheet in all five previous matches Source: elconfidencial. Belgium, coached by Rudi García, had eliminated the United States 4-1 in the round of 16 Source: elmundoes. The victory sets up a semifinal clash with France, who defeated Morocco 2-0 Source: elespanol.

What's Next

The semifinal will take place on July 14 at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, with a 9 PM local time kickoff Source: abces. Spain and France have a recent history, including a 2025 Nations League semifinal won by Spain Source: elconfidencial.