Spain edge Belgium to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals

The former world champions made an attacking start and took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz, who finished off a well-worked move to put Spain ahead

LOS ANGELES: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 11th, 2026) Spain secured a place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final played in Los Angeles on Friday.

The former world champions made an attacking start and took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz, who finished off a well-worked move to put Spain ahead.

Belgium responded strongly and restored parity before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere found the back of the net in the 41st minute. The goal was the first Spain had conceded in the tournament.

With the match appearing destined for extra time, Spain produced a late breakthrough. Midfielder Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 88th minute, giving his side a 2-1 lead.

Belgium pushed forward in search of an equaliser during the closing stages but failed to breach the Spanish defence, allowing Spain to seal victory and book their place in the last four of the tournament.

Spain's qualification follows France's earlier quarter-final victory, setting up an exciting semi-final stage as the race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title intensifies.