Lammens error sends Belgium out against Spain

Belgium were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals after Senne Lammens’ late error gifted Spain a 2-1 win in a match level until the 88th minute.

Lammens had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois in the 71st minute, but his weak clearance from Pau Cubarsí’s long-range effort fell straight to Mikel Merino, who finished the chance to settle the tie.

Belgium had stayed organised despite losing Yuri Tielemans before kick-off and Courtois during the game. After Fabián Ruiz had put Spain ahead, Charles De Ketelaere headed the equaliser to give Rudy Garcia’s side hope and register Spain’s first goal conceded of the tournament.

Spain dominated possession and kept pressing through Lamine Yamal, but Belgium held firm until the closing stages. The match looked headed for extra time before Lammens’ mistake ended Belgium’s run and sent the European champions through.