Spain Cruises to World Cup Semis After 2‑1 Win over Belgium

Key Moments of the Match

Spain secured their semi‑final spot in a thriller at the Los Angeles Stadium, edging past Belgium 2‑1 in the closing minutes. Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring early after a bright start by Luis de la Fuente’s side, giving La Roja the lead they dictated for much of the first half. Belgium responded before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, who levelled the contest after Youri Tielemans was forced out during warm‑ups. The game hung in the balance until Mikel Merino, arriving from the bench, latched onto a rebound from replacement keeper Senne Lammens and fired home the winner in the 88th minute. The result sends Spain into an all‑European clash with France, while Belgium’s golden generation sees its World Cup run end.

The second half saw Spain dominate possession and creation, but Thibaut Courtois—who was forced off by injury—produced several crucial saves to keep Belgium in the fight. Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal both tested the Belgian defence with late chances, yet it was the veteran midfielder Merino who delivered the decisive blow, converting a spilled effort from Pau Cubarsí. Spain’s statistical supremacy—generating more than twice Belgium’s expected goals—highlighted a command performance despite the late nervous finish.

Spain Dominates with Statistical Edge

Spain’s control was evident throughout the 90 minutes, as they out‑shot Belgium in almost every category and limited the opposition to few credible threats. The team’s possession dominance allowed them to dictate tempo, while their defensive discipline forced Belgium into a series of low‑danger attempts. Even after the equaliser, Spain kept up the pressure, creating a series of chances that were only stopped by a series of sharp saves from Courtois before his injury. In the end, the statistical narrative told the same story: a controlled victory for Spain that sets up a meeting with France.

Looking at the broader picture, this win marks Spain’s second consecutive appearance in the World Cup semi‑finals, underscoring a resurgence in Spanish football. For Belgium, the loss brings an end to an era defined by a golden generation that now faces an uncertain future. Both nations will look to their recent successes—Spain’s European crown and Belgium’s recent breakthroughs—as they prepare for the next stage of the tournament.

Jeremy Doku’s Individual Stats

Jeremy Doku logged a full 90 minutes against Spain, contributing a single key pass and two accurate crosses. His passing efficiency stood at 79 % (15 of 19 attempts), with 80 % of his switches completed in the opposition half. Doku covered 270 metres in total, making 22 carries and logging 107.5 metres of progressive distance. Defensively, he won one tackle, made two interceptions, and recovered the ball five times, though he was dribbled past three times. His showcase was recorded by Sofascore.

Despite the high number of touches (47) and dribbles (10 successful), Doku registered no assists and a modest expected assist of 0.09. He was fouled five times and committed three fouls himself, indicating a mixed involvement in the midfield battles. Overall, his performance reflected limited creative impact while still providing consistent work rate and positional discipline.

Looking Ahead to the Semi‑Finals

Spain now faces France in what promises to be a tightly contested European showdown. The French side will bring their own brand of attacking flair, creating a contrast to Spain’s methodical approach. Spain’s ability to maintain possession and convert chances, as demonstrated against Belgium, will be crucial in advancing further. Meanwhile, France will look to exploit any weaknesses in Spain’s defence, especially after the late‑game nervousness shown in this match.

For Spain, the road to a second World Cup title continues, but the victory over Belgium serves as a confidence boost ahead of the semi‑final. The team’s statistical dominance and the decisive moment from Merino show they have the depth to overcome strong opponents. Both nations will enter the next round with heightened intensity, setting the stage for another memorable chapter in international football.