Spain Advance to Semi-Final After Dramatic Belgian Battle

Match Overview

Spain secured a thrilling comeback victory over Belgium, known as the Red Devils, to book their place in the World Cup semi‑finals. The win ended the tournament for City midfielder Jeremy Doku, whose teammate suffered from the 88th‑minute goal that ended Belgium’s hopes. Spain’s progress marks only their second appearance in the last four since the competition’s modern era began.

The Spaniards opened the scoring in the first half when Rodri’s midfield control paved the way for a quick one‑two between Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro. Dani Olmo’s effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois, but the rebound fell to Fabian Ruiz, who slotted home with help from Timothy Castagne’s desperate attempt to clear.

Belgium broke the shut‑out in the 41st minute after Kevin De Bruyne’s clever pass found Castagne, who crossed for Charles De Ketelaere to head the equaliser. De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku combined early in the second half, setting up Maxim De Cuyper’s strike that briefly restored Belgium’s lead before Spain regained control.

Key Player Performances

Mikel Merino proved decisive twice, first latching onto a loose ball from substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens to net Spain’s winner, then finding the net again late in the match after Pau Cubarsi’s effort was saved. Lamine Yamal continually threatened, with a free‑kick saved by Courtois and several runs that forced the Belgian keeper off the field with an injury.

Captain Rodri’s dictating presence in midfield laid the foundation for Spain’s attack, while Thibaut Courtois’s saves, including a crucial stop from Yamal, showcased his world‑class form. The defensive unit also held firm, with Porro and Olmo providing width that created multiple scoring chances.

Road to the Semi‑Final

Spain’s victory thrusts them into a last‑four clash with France on Tuesday, 14 July at 20:00 UK time in Dallas. The encounter will be the second meeting between the nations in a World Cup semi‑final, adding historic weight to the fixture. Spain will look to build on their resilient performance against Belgium, aiming to become only the third team in the modern era to reach the final after 2010’s triumphant run.

CITY+ Tour Preview

Fans can catch all three of City’s pre‑season tour matches across Asia on CITY+, starting with Inter in Hong Kong on 1 August and continuing to Seoul and Atletico Madrid in early August. Annual or monthly subscriptions give worldwide access to live streams, full‑match replays, and exclusive documentaries.