Spain Advances Past Belgium in 2026 World Cup Quarter‑Final

Spain entered the second quarter‑final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the favourite against Belgium, knowing a win would secure a spot in the semi‑finals where France awaits. The match saw Spain dominate possession, passes and chances, yet the team struggled to convert several late opportunities. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the first half after a deflection from Dani Olmo’s shot, while Charles de Ketelaere equalised just before the break. The decisive moment came after the 85th minute when Mikel Merino, who had been introduced shortly before, found the net to send Spain into the last four.

Advertisement

Here is how Spain’s Barça stars fared on the night.

Cubarsi impressed once more for Spain. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

For a teenage centre‑back to influence a World Cup quarter‑final in that way says plenty about his confidence. Defensively, this was another mature night from Cubarsi. Belgium carried real danger through De Ketelaere and Jeremy Doku, and Spain conceded for the first time in the tournament, but Cubarsi never looked overwhelmed by the stage. He continues to play like someone who belongs in these games.

Spain’s Goal Timeline

Lamine Yamal was again Spain’s main source of attacking personality and earned the Man of the Match award. He was named Man of the Match for his constant threat. At 18, he is not just a young player enjoying the ride; he is part of Spain’s attacking identity. What stands out with Lamine is how normal this already feels. Opponents prepare for him, defenders double up on him, and he still finds ways to influence the game.

A quick recap of the scoring: Fabian Ruiz’s goal came after a deflection from Dani Olmo’s shot, while Charles de Ketelaere levelled just before the break. Mikel Merino’s late strike, coming on after the 85th minute, secured Spain’s progression.

Olmo’s Impact on the Pitch

Olmo standing out once more. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Dani Olmo was outrageously good for Spain last night. He may not have scored or directly assisted a goal at this World Cup, but he has been one of La Roja’s best players. The attacking midfielder found space between the lines, used clever body feints to escape pressure and looked sharp from minute one until he was taken off. It was his shot that Courtois deflected back into Fabian Ruiz’s path for Spain’s first goal, and he was everywhere on the pitch.

Substitutes and Late Changes

One of the biggest surprises last night was Pedri being left on the bench. The Barcelona midfielder did come on in the second half but could not do much to influence the game. He seems to be playing within himself at this World Cup, and Barcelona fans will hope he finally has a sensational game against France. Ferran Torres came off the bench just before the hour mark alongside Pedri and looked lively. He made smart runs into the box, something that Alex Baena failed to do during his time on the pitch, and linked up well with his teammates. Ferran shifted into a central role once Oyarzabal was taken off and continued to be a threat without directly influencing the game.

What It Means Going Forward

Overall, this was a huge Barcelona night. Lamine carried threat, Olmo was brilliant and Cubarsi came up with a match‑winning involvement. The semi‑final against France will be another level entirely, and it remains to be seen how these Barça stars fare in the game. Spain’s dominance in possession and creating chances suggests they have the quality to challenge the best in the next round. Now they focus on turning that momentum into a convincing performance against France in the semi‑final.

This win not only advances Spain but also reinforces the impact of its Barcelona contingent on the international stage.