​Spain advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their first appearance in this phase since their memorable triumph in 2010. The victory came in dramatic fashion after a 2-1 win over Belgium on Friday, July 10, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. A pair of finely-tuned strikes proved decisive, as Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute and Mikel Merino added a late second in the 88th minute to secure the win.
Belgium had managed to break through Spain’s defense with the tournament’s first goal against La Roja, courtesy of Charles De Ketelaere. His header found the back of the net in the 41st minute, leveling the sides at 1-1 and injecting some tension into the match. The goal briefly shifted momentum, as Belgium pressed to take the lead and push Spain back, creating a tense late phase as both sides pressed for control.
In the closing stages, Thibaut Courtois, Belgium’s goalkeeper, was substituted late in the second half. He was replaced by Senne Lammens, a decision that would have lasting implications. Merino seized on a rebound off the replacement’s initial stop, engraving the decisive moment into Spain’s favor and giving the team a late advantage that Belgium failed to erase. The goal’s timing—88th minute—proved pivotal, adding an extra layer of drama to the knockout contest and underscoring Spain’s ability to convert opportunities when it mattered most.
Photographs from the moment show Lamine Yamal, wearing number 19 for Spain, warming up on the sidelines during the match, a reminder of the young star’s ongoing development and rising influence within the squad. The atmosphere at SoFi Stadium was electric as fans witnessed a crossover of talent and tenacity that underscored Spain’s return to the World Cup’s penultimate stage.
Looking ahead, Spain’s semifinal opponents have already been set. The schedule lists France versus Spain at 2 p.m. local time (3 p.m. ET) in Arlington, Texas, moving Spain one step closer to attempting a second World Cup final appearance in 16 years. The other semifinal pairing features a clash that could see Norway or England face Argentina or Switzerland, with kickoff at 3 p.m. ET in Atlanta. These matchups set the stage for an anticipated weekend of high-stakes football as the tournament progresses toward its conclusion.
This report originally appeared on USA TODAY, emphasizing Spain’s return to the World Cup semifinals for the first time since their triumphant 2010 campaign. The narrative around Spain’s journey to this point captures a blend of seasoned experience and fresh talent, underscored by tactical discipline and timely execution in key moments. The semifinal berth solidifies Spain’s status among the tournament’s elite and invites further reflections on how the squad, led by a mix of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance, can translate this opportunity into a historic run toward another championship.