Spain are one step closer to reclaiming the FIFA World Cup crown after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A late winner from Mikel Merino ensured Luis de la Fuente’s men progressed to the semi-finals, where they will face France in one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures.
The victory not only extended Spain’s winning streak against Belgium to six consecutive matches but also highlighted La Roja’s resilience, tactical discipline, and ability to deliver under immense pressure.
For football fans across Tanzania, this thrilling contest showcased exactly why the FIFA World Cup remains the biggest sporting event on the planet, delivering unforgettable moments right up to the very last whistle.
Spain Continue Their Impressive World Cup Journey
Spain entered the quarter-finals, quietly building momentum. While much of the attention throughout the tournament had been focused on France, Argentina, and England, Luis de la Fuente’s squad steadily established itself as a genuine title contender.
Having reached their first World Cup quarter-final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010, Spain faced a confident Belgium side that had eliminated co-hosts USA in the Round of 16.
Despite Belgium’s impressive unbeaten run entering the contest, Spain immediately demonstrated why they are currently among the world’s elite.
Their trademark possession-based football controlled the opening exchanges, with Rodri dictating play from midfield while Lamine Yamal constantly threatened Belgium’s defense.
Fabian Ruiz Gives Spain a Deserved Lead
Spain’s dominance eventually paid off midway through the first half.
Pedro Porro delivered an excellent cross that found Dani Olmo inside the penalty area. Although Thibaut Courtois produced another outstanding save, the rebound fell kindly to Fabian Ruiz, who calmly slotted home his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal.
The goal perfectly reflected Spain’s patience and attacking quality.
Belgium struggled to cope with Spain’s movement, as Yamal, Olmo and Nico Williams continually stretched their defensive line.
It looked like Spain would comfortably take their lead into halftime.
Belgium Shows Its Fighting Spirit
Belgium, however, reminded everyone why it remains one of Europe’s strongest football nations.
Against the run of play, Timothy Castagne delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, where Charles De Ketelaere rose highest to power a brilliant header beyond Spain’s goalkeeper.
The equalizer was particularly significant because it marked the first goal Spain had conceded throughout the tournament.
Suddenly, the momentum shifted.
Belgium entered halftime believing they could produce another major upset.
Lamine Yamal Continues to Shine
The second half became an entertaining tactical battle.
Spain resumed their possession-heavy approach while Belgium looked increasingly dangerous on the counterattack.
One player consistently stood out.
Lamine Yamal once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of world football’s brightest young stars.
The teenage winger tormented Belgium’s defense throughout the evening with his pace, dribbling, creativity and fearless attacking play.
He repeatedly forced Thibaut Courtois into spectacular saves while also creating numerous opportunities for his teammates.
Although he didn’t score, Yamal’s influence remained enormous from start to finish.
Courtois Injury Changes the Match
Belgium’s hopes suffered a massive setback late in the game.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, arguably Belgium’s best performer, was forced off with an injury after producing several outstanding saves.
His replacement, Senne Lammens, was immediately called into action as Spain intensified their pressure.
The Belgian defense held firm, but the momentum had completely shifted in Spain’s favor.
Merino Delivers Another Big-Game Moment
As extra time appeared increasingly likely, Spain found their breakthrough.
Young defender Pau Cubarsí unleashed a powerful shot that Lammens parried.
Unfortunately for Belgium, the rebound fell directly into Mikel Merino’s path.
The Arsenal midfielder reacted quickest, calmly tapping the ball into the net from close range in the 88th minute.
It was Merino’s second consecutive knockout-stage goal and perhaps the most important strike of Spain’s tournament so far.
Spanish celebrations erupted while Belgium players collapsed in disappointment.
Tactical Analysis: Why Spain Deserved Victory
Spain’s success was built on several important tactical strengths.
Midfield Control
Rodri once again delivered a masterclass in controlling possession, dictating tempo and preventing Belgium from building sustained attacks.
Width and Creativity
Yamal and Nico Williams constantly stretched Belgium’s defense, allowing Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz to exploit central spaces.
Defensive Organisation
Although Belgium found an equalizer, Spain remained composed defensively and limited one of Europe’s most talented attacking teams to very few clear opportunities.
Squad Depth
The contributions from players like Pau Cubarsí and Mikel Merino highlighted Spain’s impressive depth—an important advantage as the tournament reaches its decisive stages.
Belgium Exit with Pride
Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Belgium can leave the tournament with plenty of positives.
Their experienced squad demonstrated resilience throughout the competition, particularly after eliminating the United States in the previous round.
Charles De Ketelaere continued his emergence as one of Belgium’s future stars, while Kevin De Bruyne remained influential whenever he found space.
However, Courtois’ late injury proved costly, and Belgium ultimately paid the price for allowing Spain to dominate possession for long periods.
Their impressive 18-match unbeaten run finally came to an end cruelly.
Semi-Final Against France Awaits
Spain now prepares for arguably their biggest test yet.
France have looked equally impressive throughout the tournament and boast world-class talent led by Kylian Mbappé.
The upcoming semi-final promises to be one of the highest-quality matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain’s technical brilliance will collide with France’s explosive pace and physical strength in what could easily be a final before the final.
Football supporters across Tanzania will undoubtedly be eagerly anticipating this heavyweight European showdown.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Spain | Belgium |
| Final Score | 2 | 1 |
| Possession | 66% | 34% |
| Goals | Fabian Ruiz (30′), Mikel Merino (88′) | Charles De Ketelaere (41′) |
| Shots | 17 | 8 |
| Shots on Target | 8 | 3 |
| Corners | 7 | 3 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
| Key Moment | Merino’s late winner | Courtois forced off injured |
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Final Thoughts
Spain once again demonstrated why they are among the favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their blend of youthful brilliance, tactical intelligence and experienced leadership proved too much for Belgium, who fought courageously until the final moments.
Mikel Merino’s dramatic late winner may ultimately become one of the defining moments of Spain’s campaign, keeping alive their dream of lifting the World Cup trophy for the second time in history.
With France waiting in the semi-finals, football fans across Tanzania can now look forward to another spectacular World Cup classic, promising goals, drama, and unforgettable memories.
