Spain and Belgium square off today in one of the biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals, with a place in the semifinals on the line. The winner will move one step closer to lifting the FIFA World Cup Trophy, while the loser will see its tournament come to an end.
Unlike the group stage, there is no possibility of a draw in the knockout rounds. If Spain and Belgium are level after regulation, the match will continue into extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
What Happens if Spain Beat Belgium?
If Spain defeat Belgium, La Roja will advance to the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain would then face France, which secured its place in the semifinals after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals. The semifinal winner will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, while the losing team will play in the third-place match.
A victory would also keep Spain’s hopes alive of winning another World Cup title after lifting the trophy in 2010.
What Happens if Belgium Beat Spain?
If Belgium defeat Spain, the Red Devils will move on to the semifinals and take on France for a spot in the World Cup Final.
Belgium has enjoyed an impressive run through the knockout stage and would continue its quest for the nation’s first FIFA World Cup championship.
Meanwhile, Spain’s tournament would come to an end with a quarterfinal exit.
What Happens if Spain and Belgium Are Tied After 90 Minutes?
There cannot be a draw in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.
If the teams are level at the end of regulation, the following tiebreaking procedures will be used:
- Two 15-minute periods of extra time
- If still tied, a penalty shootout will determine the winner
Only one team can advance to the semifinals.
Who Will the Winner Play Next?
The winner of Spain vs. Belgium will face France in the semifinals on Tuesday, July 14, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at stake.
France earned its semifinal berth by defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals.
Spain vs. Belgium Stakes
With just four teams remaining after today’s match, the stakes could not be higher. Spain enters the quarterfinal looking to continue its strong World Cup campaign, while Belgium hopes to keep its dream of capturing a first-ever World Cup title alive.
Regardless of whether the match is decided in regulation, extra time, or penalties, one nation will move within one victory of the FIFA World Cup Final.
FAQs
Can Spain and Belgium tie today?
No. Quarterfinal matches at the FIFA World Cup cannot end in a draw. If the score is tied after 90 minutes, the match goes to extra time and, if needed, a penalty shootout.
Who does the winner of Spain vs. Belgium play?
The winner will face France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals.
Is Spain vs. Belgium an elimination game?
Yes. The quarterfinal is a single-elimination match. The winner advances, while the loser is eliminated from the tournament.
What happens if the match is tied after extra time?
If the score remains level after extra time, the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout.