Super-sub Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner as Spain edged Belgium 2-1 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face France in a blockbuster showdown.
In Friday’s second quarter-final, the 2010 world champions asserted their dominance from the opening whistle, controlling possession and dictating the tempo. Their pressure was rewarded in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz fired Spain into the lead.
Belgium, however, responded positively and relied on quick counter-attacks to threaten the Spanish defence. Their persistence paid off just before the break as Charles De Ketelaere headed home from close range in the 41st minute to level the scores, sending the teams into half-time tied at 1-1.
Spain resumed the second half with the same attacking intent, creating several clear-cut chances but finding Belgium’s defence difficult to break down. The Red Devils also had opportunities of their own but were unable to convert them into a decisive goal.
Belgium suffered a major setback in the 71st minute when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who had produced four crucial saves to keep his side in the contest, was forced off through injury.
Spain eventually found the breakthrough in the closing stages. With four minutes of normal time remaining, coach Luis de la Fuente introduced Mikel Merino, and the substitute made an immediate impact. Just two minutes after coming on, Merino capitalised on a costly error from replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who spilled the ball into his path, allowing the midfielder to calmly slot home the winner from close range.
Spain will now take on France at Dallas Stadium in Texas on Tuesday, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake.
