Spain and Belgium were locked at 1-1 during their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal in California after an entertaining contest featuring chances at both ends.

Spain, who entered the match unbeaten and yet to concede a goal in the tournament, took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz converted from close range after an initial effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois.Belgium responded strongly and found the equaliser in the 41st minute as Charles De Ketelaere headed home from a Timothy Castagne cross.

Before kick-off, Belgium suffered a setback when captain Youri Tielemans withdrew because of a hamstring injury sustained during the warm-up, with Hans Vanaken coming into the starting XI and Kevin De Bruyne taking over the captaincy.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente also made a notable selection decision by leaving Pedri on the bench, opting instead for Ruiz in midfield alongside Rodri and Dani Olmo.The second half remained evenly contested, with both goalkeepers making several important saves.Courtois denied efforts from Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal and Dani Olmo, while Unai Simón kept out a dangerous attempt from De Bruyne.

Both teams introduced multiple substitutions, with Spain bringing on Pedri and Ferran Torres, while Belgium sent on Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel and Joaquin Seys.Later in the match, Courtois suffered an injury and had to be replaced by Senne Lammens.

At the time covered by the live updates, the score remained 1-1, leaving the quarterfinal finely balanced as both sides pushed for a place in the semifinals against France.