Spain Edges Belgium 2-1 in Dramatic World Cup Quarterfinal

Spain dominated Belgium with 68% possession and booked their semifinal spot at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles thanks to Fabián Ruiz's first World Cup goal in the 30th minute and Merino's 88th-minute winner off Pau Cubarsí's shot.

Belgium equalized before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere's header from Kevin De Bruyne's assist, but backup keeper Senne Lammens' error proved costly after Thibaut Courtois exited.

 Coach Luis de la Fuente's decision to bench Pedri and start Ruiz paid off, with young stars like 17-year-old Lamine Yamal shining as Spain now faces France on Tuesday chasing a second World Cup title.