Spain secured a place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals with a narrow 2-1 victory over Belgium, thanks to a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino. The match saw both teams exchange first-half goals, with Fabián Ruiz opening the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute and Charles De Ketelaere equalizing for Belgium in the 41st. Merino's goal, two minutes from full time, proved decisive after a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsí was spilled by Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Despite the win, Spain's attack remains a point of concern. The team has underperformed its expected goals (xG) throughout the tournament, a trend attributed to a lack of a traditional, prolific center forward. Manager Luis de la Fuente has opted for players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres in the attacking role, prioritizing movement and chance creation over a physical presence, a strategy that has required late-game heroics from players like Merino.

Belgium's World Cup hopes were hampered by injuries, notably to midfielder Youri Tielemans during warm-ups and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the 71st minute. These absences, coupled with an existing midfield issue with Amadou Onana, proved too much to overcome. De Ketelaere's performance, including his goal and aerial duels, was a bright spot for Belgium despite the loss. Spain now faces France in the semifinals.