The Belgian Royal Palace has lauded the national football team, the Red Devils, following their 2-1 defeat to Spain in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. In a message posted on the official X account, the Palace expressed pride in the team's journey and assured them that the future holds great promise.
Royal Message of Support
"It wasn't meant to be, but you fought until the end. We are incredibly proud of your magnificent journey, @BelRedDevils! The future belongs to you!" the Royal Palace wrote. The message came after Belgium's campaign ended with a narrow loss to Spain in California.
Match Overview
Spain took the lead when Fabian Ruiz, who started ahead of Pedri, scored after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois parried Dani Olmo's shot into his path. Belgium equalized just before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home a pinpoint cross from Timothy Castagne, set up by Kevin De Bruyne. This goal ended Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon's record run of 560 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding, surpassing Walter Zenga's previous mark of 517 minutes set in 1990.
Belgium suffered a blow in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with an injury, replaced by Senne Lammens. Soon after, Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsi's long-range effort, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to score the winning goal from the rebound.
Spain's Unbeaten Streak
The victory extended Spain's unbeaten run to 36 matches since their loss to Colombia, equaling Argentina's streak between 2019 and 2022. Spain now need just one more game to equal Italy's world-record 37-match unbeaten run. Spain will face France in the semifinals.
Belgium's exit marks the end of a campaign that saw them fight valiantly, with the Royal Palace's message emphasizing pride and optimism for the team's future.
