Merino strikes late as Spain edge Belgium to book World Cup semi-final spot

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium in their quarter-final clash in Los Angeles on Friday.

Merino, introduced in the 86th minute by coach Luis de la Fuente, made an instant impact by pouncing on a loose ball in the 88th minute to fire home from close range, breaking Belgian hearts and sending the reigning European champions into the last four, where they will face France.

Spain dominated possession for long spells and took the lead on the half-hour mark when Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to convert after Dani Olmo’s effort had been saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Belgium, however, responded before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home Timothy Castagne’s cross to restore parity and ensure the teams went into halftime level at 1-1.

The second half developed into an end-to-end contest, with both goalkeepers producing crucial saves. Spain’s Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal and Rodri all threatened, while Kevin De Bruyne twice tested Unai Simón as Belgium searched for a decisive goal.

Belgium suffered a major setback in the 71st minute when first-choice goalkeeper Courtois was forced off with an injury, handing Senne Lammens an unexpected introduction.

The substitute goalkeeper made an immediate impression with several important saves but was eventually beaten by Merino’s close-range finish.

Merino’s latest heroics continued his remarkable knack for delivering in decisive moments. The midfielder also came off the bench to score the stoppage-time winner that eliminated Portugal in the Round of 16, and once again proved to be Spain’s match-winner when the stakes were highest.

Spain entered the quarter-final as one of the tournament favourites, having reached the last eight without conceding a goal. Belgium, coached by Rudi Garcia, had earned widespread praise after knocking out co-hosts the United States and arrived with the tournament’s second-best scoring record, making Friday’s encounter one of the standout ties of the quarter-finals.