Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals after Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner against Belgium, while England and Argentina prepare for crucial quarterfinal clashes.

Spain Leave Belgium Heartbroken to Reach Final Four

Spain secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals after edging past Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarterfinal encounter. Mikel Merino emerged as the hero for La Roja, scoring in the 88th minute to seal victory and send his side into a high-stakes semifinal against France.

The contest looked destined for extra time after goals from Fabian Ruiz and Belgium’s Charles De Ketelaere left the teams level heading into the closing stages. However, Merino once again delivered when it mattered most, continuing his impressive run in the knockout rounds.

The victory keeps Spain’s hopes of lifting a second World Cup trophy alive, while Belgium’s campaign comes to an end despite a spirited performance.

Merino Strikes Again for Spain

Spain dominated large portions of the match and took an early lead through Fabian Ruiz, who capped off a flowing move with a composed finish. Belgium, battling injuries and setbacks, responded before halftime as De Ketelaere found the equaliser to bring the Red Devils back into the contest.

As the game entered its final minutes, substitute Mikel Merino capitalised on a goalkeeping error to score the decisive goal and send Spain into the semifinals.

Merino has now established himself as one of Spain’s most influential players in the knockout phase, having also scored the winner in the Round-of-16 clash against Portugal.

France Await in Mouth-Watering Semifinal

Spain’s reward for overcoming Belgium is a semifinal showdown against France, who booked their own place in the last four after defeating Morocco.

The clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, pitting two European heavyweights against each other in a battle for a place in the World Cup final. Spain will look to carry momentum into the encounter, while France will rely on their experience and attacking firepower.

With both nations among the favourites to win the title, the semifinal is expected to draw global attention.

Quarterfinal Spotlight Turns to England and Argentina

Attention now shifts to the remaining two quarterfinal matches, which will determine the final semifinalists of the tournament.

England take on Norway in Miami, with much of the pre-match focus centred on Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, whose performances and growing popularity have dominated discussions on social media. Gareth Southgate’s side enter the match as favourites, but Norway will hope Haaland can inspire another upset.

Later, Argentina face Switzerland in Kansas City in a contest expected to test the South American giants. Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina are chasing another World Cup triumph, while Switzerland will aim to continue their impressive run after progressing through a dramatic Round-of-16 tie.

Predictions for Today’s Quarterfinals

England possess greater squad depth and experience, making them slight favourites against Norway. However, Norway’s attacking quality means they remain a dangerous opponent capable of producing a surprise result.

In the other quarterfinal, Argentina’s experience and attacking options give them an edge over Switzerland, though the European side has already shown its resilience throughout the competition.

If predictions hold, football fans could be treated to a semifinal clash between England and Argentina, adding another historic chapter to one of the sport’s most famous rivalries.

Why This Matters

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered its decisive phase, with only four teams set to remain after the quarterfinals. Spain’s dramatic victory over Belgium highlights the fine margins that define knockout football, while the remaining matches promise more excitement and high-profile storylines.

With France already awaiting their opponent in the semifinals, attention now turns to whether England and Argentina can live up to expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup semifinals.
• Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 88th minute.
• Spain will face France in the semifinals.
• England and Norway meet in the quarterfinals later today.
• Argentina take on Switzerland for the final semifinal berth.
• Erling Haaland remains one of the tournament’s biggest talking points.

FAQs

Who scored Spain’s winner against Belgium?
Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 88th minute.

Who will Spain face in the semifinals?
Spain will play France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals.

Which quarterfinals are scheduled today?
England face Norway, while Argentina take on Switzerland.

Why is Erling Haaland in the spotlight?
The Norwegian striker has become one of the tournament’s biggest stars and is central to Norway’s hopes against England.

Which teams are favourites to advance?
England and Argentina are considered slight favourites, although both matches are expected to be closely contested.

Focus Keywords: Spain vs Belgium, FIFA World Cup 2026, Mikel Merino, Spain semifinal, England vs Norway, Argentina vs Switzerland, Erling Haaland, World Cup quarterfinals.

Category: Sports | FIFA World Cup 2026 | Football