Spain reaches the World Cup semi-finals for the third time
According to Championat.
Context
The Selección de España, by reaching the semi-finals for the third time, reaffirms its position as one of the powers of world football. With a history that includes winning the title in 2010, the team is now focused on repeating its success and advancing to the 2026 World Cup final, which will be held in three host countries: the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Why this matters
Spain's victory over Belgium marks a significant moment in the history of Spanish football, as it is only the third time that the team has reached the World Cup semi-finals. This achievement not only reinforces La Roja's reputation on the international stage, but also raises expectations for the future, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. The team's consistency at this stage of the tournament is an indication of its potential to compete at the highest level.
Main conclusions
- Spain reaches the World Cup semi-finals for the third time.
- Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in the quarterfinals and will play France in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup — their third appearance at this stage, after 1950 and 2010.
- España feature in the latest World Cup 2026 developments.
Spain sealed their presence in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup by defeating Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals, in an intense duel that confirmed La Roja's competitive status in the knockout phase. With this triumph, the Spanish team will face France in reaching the final of the tournament taking place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
This qualification has a special meaning: it is only the third time that Spain has reached the semi-finals of a World Cup. The first presence dates back to 1950, in an edition played with a format different from the current one. That year, there were no semi-finals or single final; The four qualified competed in a final group in an all-against-all system. Simply qualifying for this final phase was, in practice, equivalent to being among the four best — and Spain would then finish in fourth place.
The second chapter of this short but remarkable story took place in 2010. In South Africa, the Spanish team reached the final of a World Cup for the first time after beating Germany 1-0 in the semi-finals. In the decisive game, and already in extra time, they won 1-0 again, this time against the Netherlands, winning their first world title.
In 2026, with an expanded World Cup spread across three host countries, Spain will once again enter its name among the semi-finalists, following a 2-1 victory against Belgium in the quarterfinals. The result confirms the team's competitive consistency at this stage of the tournament and sets up a European classic against France, a historically demanding opponent used to fighting for top places in major international competitions.
Without losing sight of the greater objective, La Roja is now one step closer to returning to a World Cup final 16 years after the title won in 2010. Belgium, for its part, bows out in the quarter-finals, after forcing Spain to make a considerable effort, reflected in the final score.
For Portuguese fans, the Spanish route towards the semi-finals gains additional relevance due to the European context of the tournament and the expectation of a high-level clash with France in the fight for a place in the big decision. What is certain is that Spain is once again among the four best in the world, something that, until now, had only happened in 1950 and 2010 — a feat that underlines the historic dimension of the qualification now achieved.
What happens next
With qualification for the semi-finals, Spain is now preparing to face France, a European classic that promises to be an exciting duel. The match will have a significant impact on the season, as victory could catapult Spain into the final, boosting team morale and player confidence. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, this game will be crucial for the team's preparation and strategy.
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of the game between Spain and Belgium?
Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals.
What is Spain's position in the table after the victory over Belgium?
Spain's victory guarantees their presence in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Who will be Spain's next opponent in the semi-finals?
Spain will face France in the semi-finals.
How many times has Spain reached the semi-finals of a World Cup?
Spain reached the semi-finals of a World Cup for the third time in history
story.
When was the first time Spain reached the semi-finals of a World Cup?
The first time Spain reached the semi-finals was in 1950.
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