Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup semifinal with a 2-1 victory over Belgium on Friday, sealing the win with a late goal that reflected their dominance throughout the match.

The outcome had the feel of inevitability from early on, with Spain controlling long stretches of play and Belgium struggling to assert themselves at the other end. The decisive moment arrived deep into the contest, when a familiar figure stepped up to put the game beyond doubt.

Spain will now face France in the semifinal, a heavyweight clash between two of Europe's most formidable sides, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.