- Merino Strikes Late as Spain Edge Belgium to Set Up Blockbuster World Cup Semi-Final Against France
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 2-1 victory over Belgium in a gripping quarter-final that ended in heartbreak for the Red Devils.
Merino capitalised on a costly mistake by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens with just minutes remaining, sending Spain into a mouth-watering last-four clash with France in Dallas on Tuesday.
The victory preserved Spain’s status as one of the tournament favourites after another disciplined display from Luis de la Fuente’s side, whose impressive defensive record was finally ended but whose resilience ultimately proved decisive.
Belgium entered the contest full of confidence after thrashing the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16 but suffered two significant setbacks before and during the match.
Experienced midfielder Youri Tielemans was forced to withdraw during the warm-up with a hamstring injury, while first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the pitch in tears midway through the second half after suffering what appeared to be a thigh injury.
Spain dominated possession for much of the opening period and deservedly took the lead in the 30th minute.
After Dani Olmo’s effort was parried, Fabian Ruiz reacted quickest to slot home the rebound, rewarding coach De la Fuente’s bold decision to start the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder ahead of Pedri.
Ruiz’s energetic display justified the selection, with the midfielder providing greater attacking presence while helping Spain maintain control in midfield.
Belgium gradually grew into the game and found an equaliser despite Spain having gone nearly 11 hours of World Cup football without conceding.
Kevin De Bruyne unlocked the Spanish defence with an incisive pass before Charles De Ketelaere powered a superb header beyond Unai Simón to end Spain’s remarkable run of clean sheets.
The Belgians were later convinced they should have been awarded a penalty when the ball struck Rodri’s arm inside the area.
However, referee Michael Oliver waved play on and the Video Assistant Referee upheld the decision, with officials ruling that the ball had deflected off a teammate from close range, leaving Rodri with no realistic opportunity to avoid contact.
Belgium’s hopes suffered another major blow in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off through injury.
The veteran goalkeeper, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest, left the field visibly emotional before being replaced by Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
The substitution ultimately proved decisive.
With seven minutes remaining, Pau Cubarsi unleashed a long-range effort that Lammens failed to gather cleanly. Merino, who had only recently entered the match, reacted quickest to the loose ball and calmly converted the rebound to restore Spain’s lead and send the Spanish supporters into celebration.
It was another decisive contribution from the Arsenal midfielder, who had also produced the winning goal against Portugal in the previous round.
Belgium pushed forward in search of another equaliser but Spain’s organised defence held firm to secure a place in the final four.
The victory sets up what many observers believe could be the tournament’s standout encounter as Spain face France in a clash between two of the strongest sides remaining.
France boast arguably the competition’s most dangerous attack, led by Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Désiré Doué, while Spain arrive with one of the tournament’s most disciplined defensive units and a possession-based style capable of frustrating any opponent.
For Belgium, the defeat will be particularly painful after injuries robbed them of two influential players at crucial moments.
Tielemans’ late withdrawal weakened the midfield before a ball had even been kicked, while Courtois’ departure left the team without their most experienced goalkeeper just as Spain increased the pressure.
Although Lammens had impressed during his breakthrough season at Manchester United, his costly error proved decisive on one of the biggest stages in world football.
Spain, meanwhile, continue their impressive march toward a second World Cup title and will now turn their attention to France in what promises to be a heavyweight semi-final with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake.
