Spain Edges Belgium in Dramatic Fashion to Reach World Cup Semifinals

Spain is headed to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium in a thrilling quarterfinal that was decided by a late goal.

The match was evenly contested from the opening whistle, with Spain taking the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz. Belgium responded before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere headed home the equalizer, sending the teams into the break level at 1-1.

As the second half progressed, both sides searched for the breakthrough. Belgium showed resilience despite losing veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to injury, while Spain continued to press with its trademark possession-based attack.

The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when substitute Mikel Merino reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area, scoring the winning goal and sending Spain into the final four. It was Merino's second consecutive knockout-stage winner after also delivering the decisive goal against Portugal in the Round of 16.

Belgium fought until the final whistle but could not find another equalizer, bringing an end to an impressive World Cup campaign. The Red Devils leave the tournament with their heads held high after overcoming several challenges, including key injuries during the knockout rounds. 

Spain, meanwhile, continues its impressive run and will now face France in a highly anticipated semifinal showdown. The European champions are chasing their first World Cup final appearance since lifting the trophy in 2010, and their blend of experienced leaders and emerging young stars has made them one of the tournament's strongest contenders. 

With confidence growing after another dramatic victory, Spain moves one step closer to a second FIFA World Cup title, while football fans around the world eagerly await a blockbuster semifinal against France. 

940 Gospel Radio 

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
— 2 Timothy 4:7