FIFA World Cup: Spain beat Belgium 2-1 as Mikel Merino’s late winner sets up France semi-final
Fabián Ruiz and Merino deliver crucial goals in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES – Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Mikel Merino struck a dramatic late winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles.
The substitute midfielder found the net in the 88th minute to settle a fiercely contested quarter-final that appeared destined for extra time.
Spain will now meet France in the last four after the French side eliminated Morocco.
Early control
Spain dominated possession for much of the opening half and deservedly broke the deadlock in the 30th minute. Dani Olmo forced Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into a save, but Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to convert the rebound for his second goal of the tournament.
Belgium gradually settled into the contest and found an equaliser four minutes before the break. Charles De Ketelaere headed home after a move orchestrated by Kevin De Bruyne, handing Spain their first goal conceded at this World Cup.
The equaliser rewarded Belgium's persistence after spending long spells defending against Spain's relentless pressure, ensuring the sides entered the interval level at 1-1.
Late twist
The match took another turn midway through the second half when Courtois, who had produced several important saves, was forced off with an apparent upper-leg injury. The experienced goalkeeper left the pitch visibly emotional and was replaced by substitute Senne Lammens.
Spain continued to push for a winner, while Belgium remained dangerous on the counter-attack despite missing several key players, including Youri Tielemans.
The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when Pau Cubarsí unleashed a long-range effort that Lammens failed to hold. Merino reacted first to the loose ball, calmly converting from close range to spark celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Semi-final awaits
Merino's goal added to his growing reputation for delivering in crucial moments after he also scored the stoppage-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16.
Belgium nearly forced extra time in the closing stages, but Spain held firm, with Romelu Lukaku unable to find a breakthrough.
The victory sends Luis de la Fuente's side into their first World Cup semi-final since winning the tournament in South Africa in 2010. Spain have now eliminated Portugal and Belgium in successive knockout rounds and will face France in Arlington in one of the tournament's most anticipated semi-finals.
Belgium's campaign comes to an end after a determined display that was ultimately overshadowed by Courtois' injury and a costly late error that allowed Spain to continue their march towards the World Cup title.