Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium, with substitute Mikel Merino once again emerging as the hero in the closing moments of the match.
The thrilling Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarterfinal at Inglewood, California, looked destined for extra time until Merino capitalized on a costly goalkeeping error in the 88th minute. Belgian substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsí’s shot, allowing the Arsenal midfielder to react first and fire the rebound into the net.
The dramatic strike sealed Spain’s place in the final four and set up a highly anticipated semifinal against France.
Merino Delivers Yet Another Match-Winning Moment
Mikel Merino has developed a reputation for producing decisive goals in crucial matches. His latest contribution came just minutes after stepping onto the pitch, continuing a remarkable run of late-game heroics for Spain.
The midfielder previously scored an extra-time winner against Germany in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinals and once again found the net during Spain’s Round of 16 victory over Portugal earlier in the tournament.
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Speaking after the match, Merino expressed both surprise and confidence about his latest match-winning contribution.
He said he always believes his opportunity will arrive and stressed the importance of staying alert inside the penalty area, especially when goalkeepers make mistakes under pressure.
Spain vs Belgium World Cup: Spain Controlled the Match but Belgium Fought Back
The Spain vs Belgium World Cup clash was dominated by Spain for long stretches, with Luis de la Fuente’s side controlling possession and creating the better opportunities.
Spain broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Dani Olmo’s shot was parried by Thibaut Courtois. Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest, smashing the rebound into the empty net to give Spain a deserved lead.
Belgium, however, responded before halftime despite missing captain Youri Tielemans, who suffered an injury during the pre-match warm-up. Kevin De Bruyne delivered an excellent pass to Timothy Castagne, whose cross found Charles De Ketelaere. The forward outmuscled Pau Cubarsí and headed home the equalizer, ending Spain’s impressive run without conceding a goal at the tournament.
Spain vs Belgium World Cup Ends With Dramatic Twist
The second half remained tightly contested as Belgium defended resolutely while Spain searched for a breakthrough.
With the match nearing extra time, Pau Cubarsí tested substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens with a routine effort. Lammens failed to gather the ball cleanly, and Merino reacted instantly to score the decisive goal.
The late finish highlighted Spain’s resilience and clinical edge under pressure, once again proving why Merino has become one of the team’s most valuable impact substitutes.
Blockbuster Spain vs France Semifinal Awaits
The victory means Spain will now face France in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.
Both teams entered the World Cup among the favorites and have largely justified expectations. France has impressed with the attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, while Spain has continued to dominate possession with its technically gifted midfield.
Young star Lamine Yamal remained confident after the victory, insisting Spain fears no opponent and believes the team can overcome France to reach the World Cup final.
With momentum on their side and Merino continuing to deliver when it matters most, Spain heads into the semifinal full of belief that another memorable performance awaits.
The Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarterfinal showcased Spain’s composure, resilience and ability to seize crucial moments, qualities they will need again as they prepare for a heavyweight showdown with France for a place in the World Cup final.
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