2026 FIFA World Cup Semi-final Matchup Confirmed After Spain Beat Belgium
by Elijah Odetokun, https://www.facebook.com/legitngnews · Legit.ng News · Join- France and Spain have been confirmed as the first semi-finalists of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Les Bleus defeated the Atlas Lions of Morocco 2-0 thanks to Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele
- Super-sub Mikel Merino helped Spain beat Belgium after Charles de Ketelaere cancelled Fabian Ruiz’s goal
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final is taking shape with France and Spain confirmed as the first two semi-finalists, halfway through the quarter-final.
France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the first quarter-final, thanks to goals from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele to reach their third consecutive semi-final.
Mikel Merino who came off the bench to score Spain’s winner over Portugal did the same against Belgium after Charles de Ketelaere evened out Fabian Ruiz's goal.
The two sides will play the semi-final match at AT&T Stadium on July 14, 2026, for a chance to play in the final.
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De la Fuente speak about facing France
Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente praised his players for grinding out a win against a spirited Belgium and reaching the semi-final.
The manager looks forward to facing Les Bleus and believes that if any team can beat them, La Roja is the team.
“It’s the character of the team. It’s an honour to coach a team so committed and eager to improve,” he told FIFA.
“It’s fair to think we can beat France. We’re going to work hard for it. We’re the only team that has managed to beat them twice. A great team is going to face another great team.”
Norway will take on England, while defending champions Argentina will face Switzerland to decide the second semi-final matchup.
Mbappe available to face Spain
Legit.ng previously reported that Kylian Mbappe confirmed that he will be available to face Spain after leaving the pitch injured against Morocco.
The French captain claimed that his ankle injury was something minor, and he left the pitch to allow a player in better physical condition to see out the match.