Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in a World Cup quarter-final in Los Angeles, reaching the semi-finals where they face France. Spain took the lead when Fabián Ruiz scored on 30 minutes. Belgium responded just before half-time, with Charles De Ketelaere heading home after Kevin De Bruyne’s pass set up Timothy Castagne’s cross. The match then remained evenly balanced through the second half. Belgium suffered a major disruption when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off injured in the 71st minute, replaced by Senne Lammens. After the replacement failed to secure a powerful shot from distance by Pau Cubarsí, substitute Mikel Merino pounced on the loose ball and scored the decisive goal in the 88th minute. Spain then held on as Belgium pressed for another equaliser, with both sides creating chances but Spain defending resolutely to secure their place in the last four. Multiple reports describe Merino as a recurring impact substitute for Spain, with this victory setting up a semi-final showdown against France.