On the majestic pitch of SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, amid the roar of 70,000 spectators, Spain took a new historic step toward glory. They snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, advancing to the semi-finals for the first time since 2010, the year they won their only title in history.Ruiz opens the scoring… De Ketelaere responds
Spain entered the match with the confidence of a new generation that had proven its resilience throughout the tournament. Fabián Ruiz was the first to etch his name on the scoresheet with a beautiful goal in the 30th minute, following a collective move that reflected the identity of "La Roja" based on quick passing and high pressing.However, Belgium, who never give up easily, equalized through Charles De Ketelaere in the 41st minute, resetting the match and igniting the stands before halftime.Merino… the man for the big moments
Once again, Mikel Merino stepped up when it mattered most. The player who had eliminated Portugal in the round of 16 with a last-gasp goal repeated the same script against Belgium. He came on as a substitute in the 86th minute, and just two minutes later, he was celebrating the winning goal that carried Spain into the golden square (semi-finals). This player has become a symbol of decisiveness and the character that Spain had long lacked in knockout stages.Luis de la Fuente’s system… unshakable solidity
Spain did not rely solely on an individual moment, but on a cohesive system that proved its tactical maturity:
- Smart possession without exaggeration
- High pressing that disrupts the opponent
- Flexibility between 4-3-3 and 3-2-5 formations
- Collective harmony in creating chances and defensive transitions
This team knows how to dominate, how to handle critical moments, and how to emerge victorious even when things get complicated.A fiery date with France
With this win over Belgium, Spain set up a thrilling semi-final clash against France, who defeated Morocco 2-0 in Dallas. A matchup filled with excitement: France’s physical power versus Spain’s tactical intelligence… Mbappé’s speed versus Pedri’s composure… and a long history of major encounters.Quarter-finals conclude with two heavyweight ties
Saturday will witness the last two matches of this round:
England vs Norway in Miami
Argentina vs Switzerland in Kansas This will complete the picture of the semi-finalists in a tournament that proves day after day it is one of the most exciting World Cups in history.
