Online Sports Desk
Spain survived a tense late onslaught from Belgium to register a hard-fought 2-1 victory at SoFi Stadium and secure a place in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The decisive moment came when Mikel Merino once again emerged as Spain’s hero, scoring the winning goal for the second successive match. The midfielder pounced on a loose ball after Belgian substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois in the 74th minute, failed to hold Pau Cubarsí’s shot. Merino reacted quickest to slot home the rebound and put Spain ahead.
Spain were then forced to withstand relentless Belgian pressure in the closing stages. In stoppage time, goalkeeper Unai Simón bravely challenged Romelu Lukaku for a high ball, with the collision sending the ball rolling dangerously towards the Spanish goal. Defender Pau Cubarsí showed remarkable awareness and pace to race back and clear the danger before Belgium could capitalise.
Earlier, Aymeric Laporte had produced another crucial defensive intervention, clearing a goal-bound effort off the line with Simón out of position after Belgium threatened to restore parity.
Belgium suffered a setback when veteran playmaker Kevin De Bruyne was shown a yellow card for a robust challenge on Ferran Torres. He was immediately substituted, a move that appeared aimed at avoiding the risk of a second booking and possible suspension had Belgium progressed.
Despite the narrow scoreline, Spain dictated proceedings for much of the contest. Luis de la Fuente’s side enjoyed 68 per cent possession, completed 514 accurate passes compared to Belgium’s 207, and registered five shots on target against just two by their opponents.
Belgium fought valiantly until the final whistle, but Spain’s superior control of possession, attacking enterprise and resolute defending ultimately proved decisive as the European giants marched into the World Cup semifinals.
