Merino’s Late Strike Sends Spain Past Belgium into World Cup Semi-Finals ⚽🏆
Los Angeles, July 11: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-final clash.
Spain took the lead in the 30th minute through midfielder Fabian Ruiz, who finished a well-worked attacking move. Belgium responded strongly and equalised before half-time when Charles De Ketelaere found the net in the 41st minute.
With the match heading towards extra time, substitute Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s hero once again, scoring the decisive goal in the 88th minute to seal a dramatic victory for La Roja.
The win sends Spain into a blockbuster semi-final against France, setting up one of the biggest matches of the tournament. Belgium, despite a spirited performance, bow out of the World Cup after an impressive campaign.
