2026 World Cup: Merino strikes late as Spain edge Belgium to reach semi-final
Substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner as Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Merino capitalised on a costly goalkeeping error from Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens in the 88th minute to settle a pulsating quarter-final at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The Arsenal midfielder reacted quickest after Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsi’s powerful long-range effort, beating Nico Williams to the loose ball before smashing home from close range.
Spain had looked on course for victory after Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the first half, but Belgium fought back through Charles De Ketelaere, whose equaliser was the first goal Spain had conceded in the tournament.
The breakthrough came after sustained Spanish pressure, with Ruiz reacting quickest inside the penalty area to fire La Roja ahead after Belgium failed to clear their lines.
Belgium, however, gradually grew into the contest and found a way back through De Ketelaere, ending Spain’s remarkable defensive record after five consecutive clean sheets at the World Cup.
With extra time looming, Spain continued to push for a winner and eventually found it through Merino, who once again delivered in a knockout match after his heroics in the Round of 16.
The decisive moment stemmed from Cubarsi’s fierce strike from 22 yards, which Lammens failed to hold. Merino anticipated the rebound perfectly before drilling the ball beyond the helpless goalkeeper to spark wild celebrations among the Spanish players.
Belgium threw everything forward during seven minutes of stoppage time in search of another equaliser.
Romelu Lukaku nearly created one final opportunity but was penalised for fouling Unai Simon while challenging for a cross inside the six-yard box.
Kevin De Bruyne, battling cramp in the closing stages, was substituted shortly before Spain’s winner, while Belgium’s hopes faded despite a spirited late assault.
Spain held firm through the remaining minutes to secure a place in the final four, where they will continue their bid for a second FIFA World Cup title.
For Belgium, the defeat ends another promising World Cup campaign in heartbreaking fashion, while Spain march on with their unbeaten record intact after surviving their toughest test of the tournament so far.
