Spain edges Belgium 2-1 to reach World Cup semifinals

Spain secured a spot in the World Cup semifinals by narrowly defeating Belgium 2-1 in a hard-fought quarterfinal match. The victory sets up a clash with France, who advanced after beating Morocco.

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Spain had more possession and significantly more shots than Belgium, but they had to fight until the end for the win.

The decisive goal came late in the game, in the 88th minute, from substitute striker Mikel Merino. This followed an insufficient save by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois on a long-range shot from Pedri. Merino, who plays for Arsenal, had also scored a late winner in the previous round against Portugal.

Spain had more possession and significantly more shots than Belgium, but they had to fight until the end for the win. They took a deserved lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz after an initial attempt by Dani Olmo was saved by Courtois. However, Belgium responded quickly, with Charles De Ketelaere heading in an equalizer in the 41st minute from a Timothy Castagne cross. This goal ended Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon's impressive 650-minute streak without conceding in the World Cup.

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The decisive goal came late in the game, in the 88th minute, from substitute striker Mikel Merino.

This marks only the second time Spain has reached the World Cup semifinals. Their previous appearance in 2010 resulted in them winning the title. They now face a strong French team that convincingly defeated Morocco 2-0 in their quarterfinal.

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This goal ended Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon's impressive 650-minute streak without conceding in the World Cup.