Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium on Friday at SoFi Stadium.
The victory sets up a blockbuster semi-final clash against France, with the European champions now just one win away from reaching the World Cup final.
Spain dominated possession from the opening whistle and deservedly took the lead in the 30th minute. Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Lamine Yamal before cutting the ball back for Dani Olmo, whose effort was parried by Thibaut Courtois. Fabian Ruiz reacted quickest to fire home the rebound.
Belgium responded against the run of play before half-time when Kevin De Bruyne’s precise pass found Timothy Castagne, whose cross was met by Charles De Ketelaere with a powerful header to level the score in the 41st minute—the first goal Spain had conceded in the tournament.
The second half remained evenly contested as both sides created opportunities. Belgium introduced veteran striker Romelu Lukaku in search of a winner, while Spain continued to press with Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal posing constant threats.
Belgium suffered a major setback when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured in the 70th minute, handing World Cup debutant Senne Lammens a difficult task between the posts.
The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute. Pau Cubarsi’s low effort slipped through Lammens’ hands, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to pounce on the loose ball and smash home the winner, sparking wild celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Merino’s goal marked his second consecutive match-winning strike as a substitute after his decisive contribution in Spain’s previous knockout victory.
Belgium nearly forced extra time in the closing moments, but Alexis Saelemaekers failed to find an unmarked Lukaku in front of goal, ending the Red Devils’ hopes of a comeback.
Spain now advance to face France in a highly anticipated World Cup semi-final, while Belgium exit the tournament after another heartbreaking knockout defeat.
