Spain Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez celebrated the national football team's 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal, securing a spot in the semifinals. Sanchez posted on X, "Continuing to dream together. Come on, Spain!"
Match Highlights: Ruiz and Merino Score for Spain
Fabian Ruiz, who started ahead of Pedri, opened the scoring after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois parried Dani Olmo's shot into his path. Lamine Yamal earned the Player of the Match award for his lively performance. Belgium equalized just before halftime when Kevin De Bruyne set up Timothy Castagne, whose cross was headed home by Charles De Ketelaere.
Record-Breaking Run Ends for Spain's Unai Simon
De Ketelaere's goal ended Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon's streak of 560 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous record of 517 minutes set by Italy's Walter Zenga in 1990.
Courtois Injury and Merino's Winner
Belgium suffered a setback in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with an apparent injury and replaced by Senne Lammens. The substitute goalkeeper failed to hold Pau Cubarsi's long-range effort, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to score the winner from the rebound.
Spain's Unbeaten Run Equals Argentina's Record
The victory extended Spain's unbeaten run to 36 matches since their defeat to Colombia, equaling Argentina's unbeaten streak between 2019 and 2022. Spain now trails Italy's world-record 37-match unbeaten run by one game.
Upcoming Semifinal Against France
Spain will face France in a highly anticipated semifinal as they continue their bid for another FIFA World Cup title.
