Spain vs Belgium World Cup 2026 Quarterfinal: 1-1 at Half-Time
In the 2026 World Cup quarterfinal, Spain took a 1-0 lead in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz scored from a rebound after Dani Olmo’s shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Belgium equalized in the 41st minute through Charles De Ketelaere’s header from Timothy Castagne’s cross. The match, held at Los Angeles Stadium, remains tied 1-1 at half-time, with both teams creating chances.
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Spain 2-1 Belgium: Mikel Merino Secures World Cup Semi-Final Berth
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in the final stretch after a shot from Cubarsí. Fabián had opened the scoring for Spain, but De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium. The victory sets up a semi-final clash against France. The match report highlights Merino's role as a game-changer, having previously scored against Portugal. The article also notes France's Kylian Mbappé's record against Spain (two goals, three assists in four matches, though Spain leads head-to-head 3-1). Former player Reo-Coker criticized Belgian goalkeeper Courtois's behavior. Spain's Nico Williams was also featured for his emotional journey. Analyst Jorge Valdano commented that Spain must improve 25% to beat France.
Fútbol en AS.comSpain 2-1 Stuns Belgium: Merino Last-Minute Winner Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinals
On July 11, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals, advancing to the semifinals for the first time since winning the title in 2010. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute after a rebound from Courtois' save. De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium in the 41st minute with a header. In the 88th minute, substitute Merino scored a last-minute winner from a rebound after Cubarsí's shot was fumbled by goalkeeper Lammens. This marked Merino's second consecutive last-minute winner, having also scored the decisive goal against Portugal in the Round of 16. Belgium's 'Golden Generation' players, including De Bruyne (35), Courtois (34), and Lukaku (33), likely played their final World Cup. Spain will face France in the semifinals. Yamal confidently stated in a post-match interview that France should be afraid because Spain has eliminated them before.
虎扑 - 足球Belgian Media Warn Manchester United After Lammens' World Cup Error
Belgium were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals after a 2-1 defeat to Spain, with Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens heavily criticized for a late error. Lammens, who replaced injured Thibaut Courtois in the 71st minute, fumbled a shot from Pau Cubarsi in the 88th minute, allowing Arsenal's Mikel Merino to score the winning goal. Belgian newspaper Le Soir harshly criticized Lammens, calling his mistake 'disgusting' and questioning his reliability, noting his history of lapses at Royal Antwerp and Manchester United. Online outlet Sporza acknowledged the error but offered some comfort. The article also highlights that Spain will face France in the semi-finals, and includes transfer news about Manchester United's interest in Ederson.
Mirror - FootballSpain's 'Saint Merino' Sends Team to World Cup Semi-Finals After 2-1 Win Over Belgium
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, advancing to a semi-final clash against France. The match winner was substitute Mikel Merino, who scored in the 88th minute after a blunder by Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois. Merino, an Arsenal star, had also scored as a substitute in the previous round against Portugal. International press reactions highlighted Spain's luck and Merino's heroics, with Spanish newspaper 'Mundo Deportivo' calling him 'Saint Merino.' Belgian media lamented the avoidable defeat, while French outlets noted the upcoming blockbuster semi-final. The match was played on July 11, 2026, with the semi-final scheduled for July 14.
BILD - SportSpain 2-1 Belgium Advances to Semifinals; Merino Scores Consecutive Last-Minute Winners
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to advance to the World Cup semifinals, with Mikel Merino scoring a last-minute winner for the second consecutive match. The article also covers off-field stories: Egyptian hackers allegedly breached the Argentina Football Association's email, a new sea slug species was named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, and Yamal's three-year-old brother went viral for his wild celebration in the stands. Post-match quotes include Yamal claiming no team can match Spain, coach De la Fuente noting Spain is the only team to beat France in the last two semifinals, Merino dismissing his clutch goals as coincidence, and Courtois and De Bruyne hinting at possible national team exits.
虎扑 - 足球Olmo Key, Yamal Upgrades System, Merino Becomes Spain's Big Weapon in World Cup Quarterfinal Win Over Belgium
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, ending Belgium's golden generation era. Dani Olmo served as the tactical linchpin, orchestrating play from midfield to the attacking third. Lamine Yamal provided individual brilliance that upgraded Spain's system beyond pure team play, though he was contained in the second half. Belgium equalized through Charles De Ketelaere's header, exploiting Spain's aerial vulnerability. However, substitute Mikel Merino scored the winning goal after a goalkeeping error by Belgium's backup keeper, following a Pedro Porro shot. The analysis highlights how Spain's system requires opponents to have both ball-carrying ability and box-crashing runners to break it down, questioning whether France can do so.
虎扑 - 足球Belgium Miss Tielemans and Courtois in World Cup Quarterfinal Loss to Spain
Belgium lost 2-1 to Spain in the World Cup quarterfinals, with a late strike from Mikel Merino securing Spain's victory and a semi-final matchup against France. Belgium's captain Youri Tielemans was ruled out at the last minute due to injury, and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the pitch with a thigh injury in the 71st minute. Defender Timothy Castagne commented that Tielemans, as captain and midfield master, was missed for controlling the game. Spain struggled against Courtois but ultimately prevailed. The match was published on July 11, 2026.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuSpain's Yamal Confident Ahead of World Cup Semi-Final Against France
Day 30 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup saw Spain defeat Belgium 2-1 in Inglewood, California, to set up a semi-final clash with France. Teenage winger Lamine Yamal declared Spain can face France 'without any fear,' citing victories in their last two meetings (Euro 2024 semi-final and 2025 Nations League). Mikel Merino came off the bench to score the winner for the second consecutive game, capitalizing on a mistake by Belgium's substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Spain's unbeaten run now stands at 36 matches. Elsewhere, the Colombian Football Federation condemned death threats against forward Jaminton Campaz after Colombia's elimination by Switzerland. Portugal introduced new coach Jorge Jesus following their quarter-final exit. England captain Harry Kane also spoke about playing golf with US President Donald Trump.
Soccer - The AthleticSpain Defeats Belgium 2-1 to Set Up World Cup Semi-Final Clash with France
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in a World Cup quarter-final, with a late goal from Mikel Merino after a goalkeeping error by substitute Senne Lammens, who replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois. Belgium, already depleted by injuries to Amadou Onana, Zeno Debast, and captain Youri Tielemans, fought back to equalize through Charles De Ketelaere after Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring. However, Spain's depth and Rodri's midfield control proved decisive. Lamine Yamal showed flashes but lacked finishing, while Nico Williams made an impact late. Spain will now face France in the semi-finals in Dallas, a matchup billed as a clash of Europe's top powers. Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne likely played his final World Cup match as the team lost to Spain for the sixth consecutive time.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuMerino Scores Winner in Consecutive Knockout Matches; Casillas Compares Him to Villa
In a World Cup quarterfinal match, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1. Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain, but Belgium's De Ketelaere equalized with a header. Mikel Merino then scored the decisive winning goal, securing Spain's victory. Notably, Merino has now scored the winning goal in two consecutive knockout matches, a feat that drew a comparison from legendary Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas. Casillas posted on social media that Merino reminds him of David Villa, who similarly scored winners in both the round of 16 and quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup, which Spain went on to win. The article, sourced from Hupu Football News, highlights Merino's emerging clutch performance in the tournament.
虎扑 - 足球France Leads World Cup in Goals Scored; Spain Concedes Fewest Ahead of Semifinal
In the World Cup quarterfinal, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 with goals from Fabián Ruiz and Mikel Merino, after De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium. Spain will now face France in the semifinal. So far in the tournament, France has scored the most goals with 16, while Spain has conceded only 1 goal in 6 matches, tied for the fewest among all teams. The match highlights the contrasting strengths of the two semifinalists: France's attacking prowess versus Spain's defensive solidity.
虎扑 - 足球Spanish Prime Minister Celebrates World Cup Quarterfinal Victory Over Belgium
In the World Cup quarterfinal match, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain, De Ketelaere equalized with a header for Belgium, and Merino scored the winning goal for Spain. Following the match, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez posted on social media platform X, encouraging the team by saying 'Continue chasing dreams together, go Spain!' The article, sourced from Hupu Football News, highlights the political leader's support for the national team during the tournament.
虎扑 - 足球Rivaldo: Spain Improving, Strong Title Contender After Quarterfinal Win Over Belgium
In a World Cup quarterfinal match, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1, with Fabian Ruiz scoring first, De Ketelaere equalizing for Belgium with a header, and Merino netting the winner from the bench. After the match, Brazilian football legend Rivaldo commented that Spain is improving with every match and has fully confirmed its status as a title contender since the start of the World Cup. He highlighted Merino's key role as a substitute in scoring the winning goal to help Spain reach the semifinals. Rivaldo also noted that Spain and France are set for a fierce showdown, calling it a top-level semifinal given both teams' outstanding performances. The article was published by Hupu Football News on July 11.
虎扑 - 足球Merino: 'Better than in my wildest dreams'
Spanish substitute Mikel Merino scored a late winning goal in the 88th minute against Belgium (2-1) in the Euro 2026 quarterfinal on July 11, 2026. The Arsenal midfielder, who also scored the only goal in stoppage time against Portugal in the previous round, capitalized on a rebound from Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Merino described the emotions as stronger than in his 'wildest dreams,' highlighting his role as a supersub for La Roja.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuMikel Merino the Unlikely Hero Again as Spain Reach World Cup Semi-Finals
Spain advanced to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Belgium, thanks to a late winning goal from substitute Mikel Merino. The Arsenal midfielder, who also scored the winner against Portugal in the last 16, has become Spain's super sub after overcoming a rare stress fracture in his foot that nearly ended his tournament hopes. Spain will now face France in the semi-finals, setting up a clash between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, though the young Barcelona star has yet to replicate his Euro 2024 form. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised Merino's versatility and commitment, while former England striker Wayne Rooney highlighted his knack for arriving at the right moment in big games.
BBC SportMerino the Unlikely Hero Again as Spain Wait for Lamine Yamal Show
Mikel Merino came off the bench for the second consecutive match to score a late winner, sending Spain into the 2026 World Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Belgium. The Arsenal midfielder, who feared he would miss the tournament due to a rare foot injury, has become Spain's super sub after also scoring in stoppage time against Portugal in the round of 16. Spain will now face France for a place in the final, setting up a potential showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. However, the teenage Barcelona star has yet to make a major impact at this World Cup, with only one goal and no assists in six games, contrasting with his standout performance at Euro 2024. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised Merino's versatility and commitment, while the player reflected on overcoming adversity to reach this point.
BBC SportMerino Scores Winner as Spain Defeats Belgium 2-1 in World Cup Quarterfinal
In a World Cup quarterfinal match on July 11, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain, but De Ketelaere equalized with a header for Belgium. Mikel Merino came off the bench to score the winning goal, continuing his remarkable tournament as a super-sub. According to statistics from Hupu, Merino has made 6 appearances in the World Cup, with 5 as a substitute. He has taken 4 shots, with 3 on target, and scored 2 match-winning goals. His big chance conversion rate stands at 100%, pass accuracy at 86%, and he has suffered 5 fouls. The report highlights Merino's efficiency and impact as a substitute player for Spain.
虎扑 - 足球Spain Vs. Belgium 2-1: Late Winner Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinal
In the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 with a late winner in the 88th minute. Spain, which had not conceded a goal all tournament, took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz. Belgium equalized in the 41st minute via a header from Charles De Ketelaere. In the second half, Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured, replaced by Senne Lammens. Spain's pressure paid off when Mikel Merino scored a rebound goal in the 88th minute. The win sends Spain to the semifinals to face France, led by Kylian Mbappé.
Yardbarker: SoccerSpain 2-1 Belgium: Merino's Late Goal Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinals
Mikel Merino scored an 88th-minute rebound goal after Belgium backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a shot, giving Spain a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium in the 41st minute, ending Spain's tournament shutout streak. The match turned when Belgium's star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left with a thigh injury in the 71st minute, replaced by Lammens. Spain's unbeaten run extends to 37 matches since March 2023. They will face tournament favorites France in the semifinals in the Dallas area on Tuesday. Spain coach Luis De La Fuente called it 'a clash of giants.'
Yardbarker: SoccerSpain Advances to World Cup Semifinal After 2-1 Win Over Belgium
In a World Cup quarterfinal match, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1, with Fabián Ruiz scoring first, De Ketelaere equalizing with a header, and Merino netting the winner. Spain will now face France in the semifinal. This marks Spain's 8th major tournament (World Cup + European Championship) semifinal appearance in history. In their previous 7 semifinals, Spain advanced 6 times, with their only elimination coming against Italy in Euro 2020 via a penalty shootout. The historical record shows Spain advanced in 1964 (extra time), 1984 (penalty shootout), 2008, 2010, 2012 (penalty shootout), and 2024, while being eliminated in 2021 (penalty shootout).
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