Merino strikes late again as Spain sink Belgium to reach World Cup Semi-finals

July.11 (Mirror Sports) -

Mikel Merino once again proved to be Spain's hero, scoring the decisive 88th-minute goal to seal a 2-1 victory over Belgium and send the European champions into the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals.

Just days after netting a stoppage-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16, the Arsenal midfielder repeated his heroics in Los Angeles. Merino had been on the pitch for less than two minutes when he pounced on a rebound after Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsi's long-range effort.

Fabian Ruiz gave Spain a deserved lead in the 30th minute, firing home after Dani Olmo's initial effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Belgium hit back before half-time through Charles De Ketelaere, whose powerful header from Timothy Castagne's cross ended Spain's remarkable run without conceding a goal at the tournament.

Spain continued to press after the break, but the game turned when Courtois was forced off injured in the 71st minute. His replacement, Senne Lammens, failed to hold Cubarsi's powerful shot, allowing Merino to fire the rebound into the roof of the net from close range.

The victory sends Luis de la Fuente's side into the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face France in Dallas on Tuesday.

Belgium, meanwhile, bowed out of the tournament in heartbreaking fashion despite a spirited display.