The first World Cup semi-final is confirmed, with France set to face Spain after both European sides came through their quarter-finals.
France were the more comfortable winners, beating Morocco 2-0 in Boston. Morocco stayed in the contest through the first half and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved a penalty from Kylian Mbappé, but France eventually broke through after the interval.
Mbappé curled France ahead on 60 minutes before helping create the second for Ousmane Dembélé just six minutes later. Morocco had enjoyed another strong tournament, but France controlled the decisive stages and moved one step closer to another World Cup final.
Spain faced a far more difficult evening against Belgium, eventually winning 2-1 after a tense quarter-final.
Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring after half an hour, converting the first of two rebounds that would eventually decide the match. Belgium responded well and equalised through Charles De Ketelaere shortly before half-time, becoming the first team to score against Spain at this World Cup.
Spain were clearly the stronger side throughout the match, controlling possession and creating the better opportunities, but Belgium defended with discipline and gave away very few clear chances. The Red Devils had already lost captain Youri Tielemans during the warm-up through injury, forcing a late reshuffle in midfield.
Belgium were still level at 1-1 heading into the closing stages before Mikel Merino scored the winner in the 88th minute from another rebound inside the penalty area. It was a cruel way for Belgium to exit after a determined performance against one of the tournament favourites.
Although Belgium's World Cup journey ends here, they leave with plenty of positives. Spain had not conceded a single goal before this quarter-final, making Belgium the first side to break through their defence during the tournament.
France and Spain will now meet in the first semi-final on Tuesday 14 July (15th of July 2am Thai time) in Dallas, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at stake.
The remaining two quarter-finals will complete the final four, with Norway taking on England before Argentina face Switzerland.
