Photo: Mikel Merino's late heroics have sent Spain through to the World Cup semi-finals.
Merino Books Spain's Semi-Final Showdown with France After Late Winner Against Belgium
Sports Desk | GenZ Frontier | July 11, 2026
LOS ANGELES, CA — The magic of late goals continues to define Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. In a tense and tightly contested quarter-final at Los Angeles Stadium, Mikel Merino once again proved to be the ultimate super-sub, lashing home an 88th-minute winner to edge Belgium 2-1 and secure La Roja's place in the final four.
Luis de la Fuente’s side will now travel to Arlington, Texas, for a colossal semi-final showdown against France on Tuesday, July 14, in what promises to be one of the marquee matchups of the tournament.
A Tactical Battle in the Californian Sun
Spain dictated the tempo from the opening whistle, monopolizing possession through Rodri and an energized midfield. The breakthrough arrived in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz—a surprise starter selected over Pedri—capitalized on the mounting pressure. After Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois brilliantly repelled an initial shot from Dani Olmo, Ruiz was quickest to react, slotting home the rebound to put Spain in front.
The electrifying 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who was eventually named Player of the Match, consistently terrorized the Belgian defense, narrowly missing a spectacular curling effort moments later.
However, Belgium’s star-studded "Golden Generation" refused to fold. On the brink of halftime in the 41st minute, Kevin De Bruyne threaded an intuitive pass to release Timothy Castagne down the flank. Castagne delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Charles De Ketelaere crept cleverly onside to head past Unai Simón, restoring parity heading into the break.
Courtois' Injury and Merino's Moment
The second half transformed into a grueling war of attrition. Both sides created half-chances, but the defining moment of the match was triggered by an unfortunate twist of fate for Belgium. In the 71st minute, their talismanic goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off the pitch due to injury, leaving the field in tears as 22-year-old Senne Lammens took his place.
As extra time loomed, Spain ramped up the pressure. De la Fuente turned to his bench, introducing Mikel Merino to inject late energy. Just three minutes after stepping onto the pitch, Merino found himself in the right place at the perfect time. A powerful long-range drive from Pau Cubarsí proved too much for the substitute keeper Lammens to handle cleanly. The ball spilled loose, and Merino pounced, lashing it into the back of the net in the 88th minute to shatter Belgian hearts and send the Spanish fans into delirium.
The Road Ahead: A Date with France
The final whistle confirmed Spain's progression and eliminated a resilient Belgian side that had impressed throughout the tournament. Spain remains unbeaten in North America and will carry immense momentum into their next challenge.
The stage is now set for a titanic all-European semi-final. Spain will face a formidable French side at AT&T Stadium (Dallas Stadium) next Tuesday. With both teams boasting incredible depth and tactical discipline, it will undoubtedly be a battle for the ages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What was the final score between Spain and Belgium? Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to advance to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
2. Who scored the goals in the match? Fabián Ruiz (30') and Mikel Merino (88') scored for Spain. Charles De Ketelaere (41') scored the lone goal for Belgium.
3. Why was Belgium's goalkeeper substituted? Thibaut Courtois was forced to leave the pitch in the 71st minute after sustaining an injury. He was replaced by backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
4. Who will Spain play next? Spain will face France in the semi-finals on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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