Spain beats Belgium 2-1 to reach 2026 World Cup semifinal

SALADIN, Iraq — LOS ANGELES — Spain advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarterfinals. The tournament is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Fabián Ruíz opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute at the Los Angeles stadium, before Charles De Ketelaer equalized for Belgium with a header in the 40th minute. The first half ended 1-1, with Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois making several saves to keep his side level. Spain maintained pressure after the break and secured the win in the 87th minute through substitute Mikel Merino. Spain will face France in the semifinal, after France advanced by winning its quarterfinal earlier in the round.