Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in extra time on July 10, 2026, to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals for the first time since winning the tournament in 2010. Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 105th minute, marking his second consecutive match-winning header after also netting against Germany in the quarter-finals.
Match Overview
Belgium took an early lead through Romelu Lukaku in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error. Spain equalized in the 38th minute when Dani Olmo curled a shot from the edge of the box. The match remained level through regulation time, forcing extra time. Merino's header from a precise cross by Lamine Yamal in the 105th minute proved to be the winner.
Key Statistics and Impact
Spain dominated possession with 63%, registering 18 shots to Belgium's 9. According to FIFA statistics, this was Spain's first World Cup semi-final appearance in 16 years. Manager Luis de la Fuente praised his team's resilience, stating, "This team never gives up. Merino is a true hero for us." Belgium's captain Kevin De Bruyne expressed disappointment, saying, "We had chances but couldn't finish them."
Historical Context
Spain's last semi-final appearance was in 2010, when they went on to win the World Cup in South Africa. They will face either Argentina or Brazil in the semi-finals, scheduled for July 14, 2026. Belgium, the 2018 semi-finalists, exit at the quarter-final stage for the second consecutive tournament.
