Merino’s Late Strike Sends Spain To Semi-Finals

Spanish Victory Comes At Last Minute

Mikel Merino struck with two minutes remaining to seal a dramatic 2‑1 win over Belgium and book Spain’s place in the World Cup semi‑finals. The midfielder, who previously netted a stoppage‑time winner against Portugal, capitalised on a clumsy spill by Senne Lammens, who had replaced an injured Thibaut Courtois. Spain’s earlier goal came from Fabian Ruiz in the 30th minute, but Belgium equalised just before the break through Charles De Ketelaere.

The match turned on a series of setbacks for the Belgians. Goalkeeper Courtois suffered a thigh injury and left the field in tears, forcing Lammens into action. Meanwhile, midfield pivot Youri Tielemans pulled out during the warm‑up, robbing Belgium of a key creative hub.

Despite being outplayed for large spells, Spain survived a period of intense pressure in the second half, eventually pulling through thanks to extra‑time resolve. Coach Luis de la Fuente’s double substitution—bringing on Ferran Torres and Pedri—reinvigorated the attacking flow, while Belgium’s deep defensive slump in extra time created the opening for Merino’s decisive finish.

Belgium’s Collapse And Missed Opportunities

Belgium failed to convert several early chances, with Jeremy Doku and Lamine Yamal testing the Spanish defence before the break. Kevin De Bruyne’s vision set up De Ketelaere’s equaliser, but the Belgian side could not build on that momentum after the interval. In extra time, a Rodri block from a long‑range De Bruyne effort and a mis‑controlled shot by Cubarsi highlighted a lack of composure at crucial moments.

The loss leaves Belgium grieving not only the defeat but also the injury to one of world football’s premier keepers. Senne Lammens’ error, which directly led to Merino’s winner, will linger as a defining image of their tournament run. The team’s resilience was tested throughout, yet each crunch moment seemed to unravel under pressure.

Spain’s Unbeaten Streak And Historic Context

Spain’s victory extends an impressive 36‑match unbeaten run in competitive fixtures. The clean‑sheet record, once a 650‑minute fortress, finally cracked when De Ketelaere found the net. This streak ties the nation’s recent dominance, echoing the success of the 2010 generation while laying groundwork for a potential second World Cup triumph.

Historically, Spain have remained unbeaten in 11 games against Belgium, a remarkable record dating back to a World Cup quarter‑final shootout loss 40 years ago in Puebla City against Mexico. The current squad’s progression reflects a broader narrative of sustained excellence, underscored by a supportive crowd of 70,000 fans in Los Angeles who reveled in the Spanish performance.

Next Up: A Clash With France

The path ahead for Spain leads to a cauldron‑filled Dallas Stadium where Kylian Mbappé and an explosive French attack await. The French side, European heavyweights in their own right, will test whether Spain’s late‑game courage can survive a top‑tier adversary. The semi‑final promises to be a showcase of elite talent, with the loser bowing out of the tournament.

This matchup sets up as a defining moment for the 2026 World Cup, potentially shaping the trajectory of both nations’ histories. Fans anticipate a contest that will blend France’s attacking flair with Spain’s tactical discipline. The winner will advance to the final, aiming for the ultimate prize in international football.