Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence that his team can overcome France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal, following a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarterfinals in California on July 11, 2026.
De la Fuente Praises Team Character
Speaking after the quarterfinal triumph, De la Fuente highlighted the determination and hunger shown by his players throughout the tournament. "It's the character of the team. It's an honour to coach a team so committed and eager to improve," he said, as quoted by FIFA.
Confidence Ahead of France Clash
Spain will now face France in a highly anticipated semifinal. De la Fuente believes his side has the ability to overcome the reigning European heavyweights. "It's fair to think we can beat France. We're going to work hard for it. We're the only team that has managed to beat them twice. A great team is going to face another great team," he added.
Quarterfinal Match Details
In the quarterfinal, Fabian Ruiz, who was given a surprise start ahead of Pedri, opened the scoring for Spain. Substitute Mikel Merino scored the winner, while Charles De Ketelaere netted for Belgium. The match also saw Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois forced off with an injury.
Key Moments
- Ruiz scored after Courtois parried Dani Olmo's effort into his path.
- Lamine Yamal earned the Player of the Match award for his lively display.
- Belgium equalised just before halftime when Kevin De Bruyne released Timothy Castagne, whose cross was headed home by De Ketelaere, who timed his run to stay onside.
Record-Breaking Run Ends
The goal ended Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon's remarkable run of 560 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous tournament record of 517 minutes set by Italy's Walter Zenga in 1990.
Injury and Decisive Goal
Belgium suffered a major setback in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with an apparent injury and replaced by Senne Lammens. The substitute goalkeeper was beaten soon after when he failed to hold Pau Cubarsi's long-range effort, allowing Merino, who had only recently entered the game, to pounce on the rebound and score the winner.
Unbeaten Streak Continues
The victory extended Spain's unbeaten run to 36 matches since their defeat to Colombia, equalling Argentina's unbeaten streak between 2019 and 2022. They are now just one game short of Italy's world-record 37-match unbeaten run.
