Merino's 88th-Minute Winner Sends Spain to World Cup Semi-Finals Over Belgium

Spain are through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a tense quarter-final at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Substitute Mikel Merino, who had previously rescued Spain in the tournament with a late goal, emerged as the hero once again, slotting home in the 88th minute to book a showdown with France.

A Game of Two Halves

Spain took the lead in the 30th minute when surprise starter Fabián Ruiz — who replaced Pedri in the line-up in a bold decision by manager Luis de la Fuente — scrambled home a rebound to put La Roja in front. Belgium struck back through Charles De Ketelaere in the 41st minute, the 25-year-old Atalanta forward outmuscling defender Pau Cubarsí to convert Timothy Castagne's cross. It was the first goal Spain had conceded at this tournament.

The second half remained tight, with an injured Thibaut Courtois making two fine saves before being forced off in the 71st minute with a muscle problem. Courtois was visibly in tears as he left the field. Belgium had already been handicapped by the late withdrawal of Youri Tielemans from the starting XI due to a groin injury sustained during the warm-up — the midfielder had covered more distance than any other Belgian player in the tournament.

Merino Strikes Again

With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Cubarsí's long-distance drive, and Merino pounced on the loose ball to fire Spain in front with just two minutes of normal time remaining. The celebration in Madrid was described as euphoric.

"It's surreal to net Spain's winner again," Merino said after the match. Lamine Yamal added: "France should fear us in the semi-final."

Tactical Notes

The decision to drop Pedri — who had started all five of Spain's previous matches — for Ruiz proved inspired, as the midfielder scored the opener and gave Spain a different profile in possession. Spain face France on Tuesday, knowing that their World Cup attack still needs to be more clinical if they are to lift the trophy.