Belgium and Spain secured their places in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday after recording hard-fought victories in the Round of 16.
Former champions Spain edged Iberian rivals Portugal 1-0 in a tense encounter to continue their pursuit of a second World Cup title.
A disciplined defensive display and a decisive second-half strike proved enough for La Roja to eliminate Portugal and book their place in the last eight.
Meanwhile, Belgium ended the host nation’s World Cup dream with a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States.
The Red Devils produced a clinical attacking performance, silencing the home crowd with four well-taken goals.
Spain and Belgium will now meet in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
Spain will look to rely on their possession-based style and tournament experience, while Belgium hope their attacking firepower can carry them one step closer to World Cup glory.