Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026™
Round: Quarter-finals
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium
Full-Time Result: Spain 2-1 Belgium
Spain vs Belgium Result: Late Mikel Merino Goal Sends Spain Into the Last Four
Just when the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final appeared destined for extra time, Mikel Merino produced a decisive late moment that changed everything. The Spanish midfielder struck in the 88th minute to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium and book Spain’s place in the semi-finals.
The quarter-final showcased Spain’s dominance as they controlled possession, created more chances, and eventually found a dramatic late winner.
For Spanish supporters, it was another memorable World Cup night. For Belgium, it was a heartbreaking end to an impressive tournament run.
Match Details
Goalscorers
Fabián Ruiz (Spain) – 30′
Charles De Ketelaere (Belgium) – 41′
Mikel Merino (Spain) – 88′
Spain vs Belgium Result: How the Quarter-Final Unfolded
Spain entered the match full of confidence after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16. to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Belgium, meanwhile, booked their spot in the last eight with an impressive 4-1 victory over the United States.
Both teams arrived in Los Angeles with momentum, setting the stage for a highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final.
From the opening whistle, Spain looked determined to take control of possession and dictate the tempo.
Belgium, meanwhile, adopted a more compact shape and focused on staying organized defensively. Their plan was to frustrate Spain and capitalize on any opportunities that emerged in transition.
For much of the opening half hour, Spain dominated the ball and pushed Belgium deeper into their own half. The pressure eventually produced the breakthrough they deserved.
Fabián Ruiz Gives Spain the Lead
Spain’s first goal arrived in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz.
After a sustained spell of pressure, Spain finally found a way through Belgium’s defensive structure. The goal rewarded their positive start and gave them a deserved advantage.
At that stage, Spain appeared comfortable. Their passing was sharp, their movement was fluid, and Belgium struggled to gain possession for extended periods.
However, knockout football often changes quickly.
Belgium remained patient and waited for their opportunity.
Charles De Ketelaere Brings Belgium Back Into the Match
Belgium responded brilliantly before halftime.
In the 41st minute, Charles De Ketelaere scored the equalizer to bring his side back into the contest. The goal arrived against the run of play but demonstrated Belgium’s ability to capitalize on limited opportunities.
The equalizer completely changed the mood of the game.
Instead of entering halftime with a lead, Spain suddenly found themselves level. Meanwhile, Belgium gained confidence knowing they had survived Spain’s early dominance.
The first half ended with the score tied at 1-1.
Spain Continue to Dominate After the Break
The second half followed a familiar pattern.
Spain controlled possession and looked to create openings through patient build-up play. Belgium defended with discipline and attempted to remain compact whenever Spain entered dangerous areas.
Despite Belgium’s determination, the statistics showed Spain’s superiority throughout the contest.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Spain | Belgium |
| Shots | 18 | 5 |
| Shots on Target | 8 | 2 |
| Possession | 68% | 32% |
| Passes | 663 | 295 |
| Pass Accuracy | 91% | 81% |
| Fouls | 13 | 18 |
| Corners | 5 | 1 |
Spain vs Belgium Key Stats
- Possession: Spain 68% – 32% Belgium
- Shots: Spain 18 – 5 Belgium
- Shots on Target: Spain 8 – 2 Belgium
- Pass Accuracy: Spain 91% – 81% Belgium
- Corners: Spain 5 – 1 Belgium
These numbers highlight the extent of Spain’s control.
They attempted more than three times as many shots as Belgium and completed more than twice as many passes. Furthermore, their 91 percent passing accuracy allowed them to maintain pressure for long periods.
Belgium worked tirelessly to stay in the match, but Spain continued to push forward in search of a winning goal.
Mikel Merino Becomes Spain’s Hero
The Decisive Moment in the Spain vs Belgium Result
As the match entered its final minutes, extra time seemed increasingly likely.
Spain, however, refused to settle.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute when Mikel Merino found the back of the net to restore Spain’s lead.
The goal sparked celebrations among Spanish players and supporters alike. After controlling large portions of the match, Spain finally had the breakthrough they had been seeking.
Belgium attempted to respond during the closing moments, but there was not enough time to force another equalizer.
When the final whistle arrived, Spain had secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory and a place in the semi-finals.
Why Spain Beat Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup Quarter-Finals
Although Belgium competed admirably, several factors explain why Spain ultimately emerged victorious.
Superior Possession
Spain enjoyed 68 percent possession and controlled the rhythm of the match from start to finish.
Greater Attacking Threat
The Spanish side produced 18 shots compared to Belgium’s five, demonstrating a much stronger attacking presence.
Outstanding Passing Quality
Spain completed 663 passes with an impressive 91 percent accuracy rate. Consequently, they were able to dictate play and limit Belgium’s opportunities.
Relentless Pressure
Spain never stopped attacking, even after Belgium equalized. Their willingness to keep pushing forward eventually resulted in the winning goal.
Key Players in Spain vs Belgium
Mikel Merino
Merino’s winning goal made him the headline figure of the match. His late strike ensured Spain’s place in the World Cup semi-finals.
Fabián Ruiz
Ruiz opened the scoring and played a major role in Spain’s attacking play throughout the contest.
Charles De Ketelaere
Belgium’s standout performer found the equalizer before halftime and gave his team hope during difficult periods.
Tactical Analysis: Spain’s Possession Versus Belgium’s Discipline
One of the most interesting aspects of the quarter-final was the contrast in playing styles.
Spain focused on possession-based football. Their objective was to control the ball, create openings through movement, and gradually wear down Belgium’s defensive resistance.
Belgium adopted a more cautious approach. They defended deeper and looked to take advantage of moments when Spain committed players forward.
For long stretches, Belgium’s strategy worked effectively. However, continuously defending against a team enjoying nearly 70 percent possession is extremely demanding.
Eventually, Spain’s pressure became too much to contain.
Spain’s Road to the Semi-Finals
Spain’s quarter-final victory continues an impressive World Cup campaign.
Before overcoming Belgium, Spain secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16.
The team has demonstrated consistency, tactical discipline, and attacking quality throughout the tournament. Their ability to remain patient under pressure was evident once again against Belgium.
Perhaps most importantly, Spain showed resilience after conceding an equalizer. Instead of losing confidence, they continued to attack and were rewarded late in the game.
Those qualities could prove vital as the competition enters its final stages.
Belgium Exit With Pride
Although Belgium’s World Cup journey ends here, their performance deserves recognition.
Belgium arrived in the quarter-finals after an impressive 4-1 victory over the United States.
They faced one of the tournament’s strongest teams and remained competitive until the closing moments. Their defensive organization and determination kept the match balanced for much of the evening.
Charles De Ketelaere’s goal provided hope, while Belgium’s overall effort ensured Spain had to work hard for qualification.
Ultimately, the difference came down to Spain’s ability to create more opportunities and find a decisive moment late in the game.
What the Spain vs Belgium Result Means
The victory sends Spain into the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals and keeps their dream of lifting the trophy alive.
Knockout football often depends on handling pressure, staying composed, and taking chances when they appear. Spain demonstrated all three qualities in Los Angeles.
Belgium, meanwhile, leaves the tournament after a respectable run that included several memorable performances. While disappointment is inevitable after such a narrow defeat, they can reflect positively on reaching the quarter-finals.
Who Will Spain Face in the Semi-Finals?
Spain’s reward for defeating Belgium is a FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final clash against France. France secured their place in the last four after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarter-finals.
The upcoming encounter will feature two of the tournament’s strongest teams and promises to be one of the biggest matches of the competition. With a place in the World Cup final at stake, both sides will be eager to continue their impressive runs.
Conclusion
The Spain vs Belgium result produced one of the most dramatic quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 thanks to goals from Fabián Ruiz and Mikel Merino, while Charles De Ketelaere scored Belgium’s lone goal.
Spain dominated possession, created the majority of chances, and maintained pressure throughout the match. Belgium responded courageously and looked capable of forcing extra time, but Merino’s 88th-minute winner ultimately decided the contest.
As a result, Spain advances to the semi-finals with confidence and momentum, while Belgium exits the tournament after a determined and competitive performance.
FAQs
What was the Spain vs Belgium result?
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals.
Who scored for Spain against Belgium?
Fabián Ruiz scored in the 30th minute, and Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 88th minute.
Who scored Belgium’s goal against Spain?
Charles De Ketelaere scored Belgium’s equalizer in the 41st minute.
Where was Spain vs Belgium played?
The quarter-final was played at Los Angeles Stadium.
How did Spain qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals?
Spain won 2-1 against Belgium after controlling possession, creating more chances, and scoring a late winner through Mikel Merino.
