Spain Advances to FIFA World Cup 2026 Semifinals with Victory Over Belgium

Spain's national football team has advanced to the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium. Coach Luis de la Fuente praised his players' commitment and character, highlighting their impressive performance throughout the tournament. With a semifinal clash against France on the horizon, Spain aims to continue their unbeaten streak, which now stands at 36 matches. The match saw key moments, including a goal from Mikel Merino and an injury to Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Discover how Spain's determination and strategy could lead them to further success in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 04:19 IST

Spain's Determination Shines in Quarterfinal Win

California [US], July 11: Following a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Belgium, Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his admiration for the team's resolve and dedication, securing their spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals.

In his post-match comments, De la Fuente emphasized the tenacity and ambition displayed by his players throughout the tournament.

"The character of this team is remarkable. It’s a privilege to coach such a dedicated group eager to improve," he stated after the match.

Spain is set to face France in a much-anticipated semifinal, and De la Fuente is confident in his team's ability to challenge the reigning European champions.

"We have every reason to believe we can defeat France. We will put in the effort required. We are the only team to have beaten them twice. It will be a clash of two great teams," he remarked.

In the match, Fabian Ruiz was surprisingly chosen to start over Pedri, and substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal for Spain, while Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere netted their only goal, following an injury to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Ruiz opened the scoring after Courtois deflected Dani Olmo's shot into his path. Spain continued to press, with Lamine Yamal's energetic performance earning him the Player of the Match accolade.

Belgium equalized just before halftime when Kevin De Bruyne set up Timothy Castagne, whose precise cross was expertly converted by De Ketelaere, ending Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon's impressive streak of 560 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding a goal, surpassing the previous record of 517 minutes held by Italy's Walter Zenga from 1990.

Belgium faced a significant blow in the 71st minute when Courtois had to leave the field due to injury, replaced by Senne Lammens. The substitute keeper was soon challenged by Pau Cubarsi's long-range shot, which he failed to secure, allowing Merino, who had just entered the game, to score the winning goal.

This victory marked Spain's 36th consecutive match without defeat since their loss to Colombia, matching Argentina's unbeaten streak from 2019 to 2022, and leaving them just one match shy of Italy's world-record unbeaten run of 37 matches.