Spain Advances Past Belgium in Thrilling Quarterfinal

Spain secured their spot in the World Cup semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium, where 70,492 spectators witnessed an intense knockout battle. Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute, giving La Roja an early advantage. Belgium responded swiftly when Charles De Ketelaere equalized before halftime in the 41st minute, setting up a tense second half. The decisive moment arrived late in the match as Mikel Merino netted the winner in the 88th minute, sending Spain through to the final four. Merino's clutch finishing proved the difference in a closely contested encounter. Spain's ability to recover from conceding and strike at crucial moments demonstrates their composure under pressure—a quality essential for deep World Cup runs. The Spanish side now advances to face their semifinal opponent.