Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a quarterfinal played Friday in Los Angeles. The victory sets up a clash with France in the next round.
Spain opened the scoring in the 30th minute before Charles De Ketelaere leveled with a 41st-minute header. Belgium lost starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to injury in the 71st minute, and his replacement Senne Lammens could not hold a late shot, allowing Mikel Merino to slot home the 88th-minute winner.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said his squad proved they were a great team despite the exit, though he also complained of a clear handball by Rodri Hernández that went unpunished in the second half.