Mikel Merino Strikes Late as Spain Beats Belgium 2-1 to Reach World Cup Semifinals

Spain continued its impressive FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarterfinals on Friday, thanks to another dramatic late goal from substitute Mikel Merino .

The European champions secured a place in only their second World Cup semifinal and will now face tournament favorites France , who defeated Morocco 2-0 to book their spot in the last four.

Spain dominated possession for large periods and took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz. Belgium responded strongly, with Charles De Ketelaere finding the net in the 41st minute to become the first player to score against Spain in the tournament, ending La Roja’s perfect defensive record at the World Cup.

With the match seemingly headed toward extra time, Spain found its breakthrough. Teenage defender Pau Cubarsí unleashed a powerful long-range effort in the 88th minute that was spilled by Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens . Merino reacted quickest, converting the rebound to send Spain into the semifinals.

The goal further enhanced Merino’s growing reputation as a knockout-stage specialist. The Arsenal midfielder had already scored the stoppage-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16 and previously delivered Spain’s dramatic extra-time winner against Germany at UEFA Euro 2024.

Belgium suffered a major setback in the 71st minute when veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an apparent thigh injury. Lammens replaced him and made several key saves before the decisive mistake late in the contest.

Spain’s young stars, including Lamine Yamal and Cubarsí, once again played important roles alongside experienced performers such as Ruiz and Aymeric Laporte. Belgium pushed desperately for an equalizer during the closing stages, but Spain’s defense held firm.

The defeat could mark the final World Cup appearance for Belgium veterans Kevin De Bruyne and Courtois, bringing another disappointing end to the nation’s golden generation.

The victory extended Spain’s remarkable 37-match unbeaten run , dating back to March 2023, and moved Luis de la Fuente’s side one step closer to World Cup glory.