Belgium's golden generation likely came to an end after a quarter-final loss to Spain in Los Angeles, with a goalkeeping error from Senne Lammens handing Mikel Merino the winning goal. The match, held at SoFi Stadium, saw Belgium's star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois leave the field in tears due to injury in the second half.
The Match and Key Moments
Belgium, already without captain Youri Tielemans who was injured in the warm-up, struggled to contain Spain. The decisive moment came when Lammens, replacing Courtois, fumbled a routine save, allowing Merino to score. Spain won 2-1, ending Belgium's tournament hopes.
Reactions and Aftermath
Courtois comforted his young teammate after the match. "I gave him a big hug. He's a great goalkeeper. You only get stronger from this," Courtois said. "Eventually you cannot say much more to him or give him much more advice. He is a strong guy, strong personality. I'm sure he'll be fine."
Belgium now faces a rebuilding phase, though reports suggest Courtois may take a year off from international football before returning for Euro 2028 qualifiers.
Spain's Next Challenge
Spain will face France in the semi-finals. Coach Luis de la Fuente confidently stated, "They'll be just as worried as we are."
Other News
In other football news, a Spanish biologist named a newly discovered sea snail after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who impressed against Portugal in the World Cup. The snail, Aldisa vozinha, is tiny and bright red, found in the Caribbean.
