Mikel Merino scored another dramatic late goal as Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to book a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
Spain secured a thrilling victory over Belgium after substitute Mikel Merino struck in the 88th minute to send the European champions into the last four of the World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder, who scored a stoppage-time winner against Portugal, repeated his heroics after coming off the bench. Merino capitalised on a rebound after Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold a long-range effort from Pau Cubarsi.
Spain had taken the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, who converted after Dani Olmo’s initial shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Belgium responded before half-time as Charles De Ketelaere headed home from Timothy Castagne’s cross. A goal that ended Spain’s impressive 649-minute run without conceding a goal at the tournament.
The match remained evenly balanced after the break. Belgium appealed for a penalty, while Spain continued to push for a winner. The turning point came in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with what appeared to be a muscle injury. His replacement, Lammens, was unable to keep out Cubarsi’s shot late in the game, allowing Merino to seal victory.
The result sends Spain into a World Cup semi-final against France in Dallas on 14 July. Luis de la Fuente’s side continues its bid for a second World Cup title.
Spain’s late resilience has once again kept their World Cup dream alive, while Belgium exits the tournament in heartbreaking fashion.
