Mikel Merino fires Spain into World Cup semi-finals
Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after Mikel Merino scored another decisive late goal in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium.
Luis de la Fuente's side looked destined for extra time before Merino capitalised on a costly goalkeeping error to send Spain into the last four, where they will meet France in one of the tournament's most anticipated fixtures.
Fabian Ruiz opens the scoring
Spain controlled large spells of possession and were rewarded when Fabian Ruiz broke the deadlock with a composed finish to give La Roja the advantage. Belgium, however, refused to fold and gradually grew into the contest as they searched for an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off when Charles De Ketelaere powered home a well-taken header to level the score, ensuring the match remained finely balanced heading into the closing stages.
Belgium's goalkeeping blow proves costly
Belgium suffered a major setback when first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off through injury late in the match. His replacement, Senne Lammens, was called into action almost immediately but endured a heartbreaking introduction.
With extra time looming, Lammens failed to hold a routine effort, spilling the ball into a dangerous area where Mikel Merino reacted quickest to poke home the winning goal.
The midfielder once again demonstrated his reputation for producing crucial moments on the biggest stage, breaking Belgian hearts with another late World Cup strike.
Spain march into blockbuster semi-final
The victory keeps Spain's hopes of lifting a second FIFA World Cup trophy alive and sets up a heavyweight semi-final showdown against France in Dallas on July 14.
Spain last reached a World Cup final in 2010 when they defeated the Netherlands to win their only world title. With France also in outstanding form, the semi-final promises to be one of the standout matches of the tournament.
Belgium exit after brave fight
Belgium battled impressively throughout and looked capable of forcing extra time after De Ketelaere's equaliser. However, one unfortunate mistake from their substitute goalkeeper proved decisive.
The defeat ends another World Cup campaign in disappointment for the Red Devils despite another spirited performance against one of Europe's strongest sides. For Spain, belief continues to grow that another historic World Cup triumph could be within reach.
SportsLigue
