Spain Defeats Belgium to Set Up Quarterfinal Clash with France

In the World Cup quarterfinal match played at Los Angeles Stadium, Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 and will face France in the semifinals on July 14 in Dallas at 10 PM ET. Goals from Fabian Ruiz and Merino secured Spain's victory, while Unai Simon's 650-minute goalless streak ended. Belgium's lone goal came from De Ketelaere.

Spain's Goals and Tactical Breakdown

■Fabian Ruiz scored in the 30th minute after a pass from Pedro Porro, capitalizing on a rebound from Courtois.

■Merino netted the decisive goal in the 86th minute, converting a rebound from Cubarsi's shot.

■Thibaut Courtois exited in the 71st minute due to an injury to his left leg.

Belgium's Resistance and Lost Record

■De Ketelaere equalized in the 41st minute with a header from Castagne's cross.

■Unai Simon's 650-minute goalless record in the World Cup was broken in this match.

■Belgium lost their status as the only team in the tournament yet to concede a goal.

Savaş Yıldırım: This match underscores Spain's elite European football pedigree. Courtois' injury could pose a defensive challenge against France. Merino's immediate impact upon entering the game highlights the tactical depth of national teams.