MERINO SENDS SPAIN INTO WORLD CUP SEMI-FINAL AFTER DRAMATIC WIN OVER BELGIUM

LOS ANGELES, USA – Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026™ semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on Friday, setting up a blockbuster clash with France in Dallas.

Mikel Merino once again proved to be Spain's hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 88th minute after coming off the bench, while Fabian Ruiz's first-half strike had earlier given La Roja the lead in an entertaining quarter-final.

Belgium fought back through Charles De Ketelaere before Spain's late winner ended the Red Devils' World Cup campaign.

Ruiz Rewards Surprise Selection

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente made a bold decision by starting Fabian Ruiz ahead of Pedri, and the move paid off midway through the opening half.

After Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced an excellent save to deny Dani Olmo, the rebound fell perfectly for Ruiz, who calmly slotted home in the 30th minute to give Spain a deserved lead.

Lamine Yamal continued to torment Belgium's defence throughout the first half, constantly creating danger with his pace and dribbling, and came close to doubling Spain's advantage with a curling effort that narrowly missed the target.

Belgium Respond Before the Break

Belgium refused to back down and found their equaliser just before halftime.

Kevin De Bruyne produced a perfectly weighted pass to release Timothy Castagne down the right flank. The defender delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area where Charles De Ketelaere timed his run brilliantly before heading past Unai Simón to level the score at 1-1.

The goal ended Simón's remarkable run of 650 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous tournament record of 517 minutes set by Italy's Walter Zenga in 1990.

Merino Delivers Again

The decisive moment arrived just two minutes from full time.

Courtois had already been forced off through injury in the 71st minute, with Senne Lammens replacing him in goal. The substitute goalkeeper failed to hold a long-range effort from Pau Cubarsí, and Merino reacted quickest to smash the loose ball into the net in the 88th minute.

It was another unforgettable late goal from the Spanish midfielder, whose composure under pressure sent Spain into the last four.

Spain's Historic Run Continues

The victory extended Spain's unbeaten run to 36 consecutive matches, equalling Argentina's impressive streak between 2019 and 2022 led by Lionel Messi. Only Italy's record of 37 unbeaten games, achieved between 2018 and 2021, now stands ahead of the Spanish national team.

Spain have not tasted defeat since losing to Colombia, highlighting the remarkable consistency built under Luis de la Fuente.

Lamine Yamal Named Player of the Match

Although Merino scored the winner, Lamine Yamal was named Superior Player of the Match after another outstanding display.

The teenage sensation consistently threatened Belgium's defence with his creativity, speed and confidence, playing a major role in Spain's attacking dominance throughout the encounter.

Coaches React

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised the mentality of his squad after reaching another major tournament semi-final.

"It's the character of the team. It's an honour to coach a team so committed and eager to improve. It's fair to think we can beat France. We're going to work hard for it. A great team is going to face another great team."

Match-winner Mikel Merino admitted the achievement felt surreal.

"I'm thrilled. We're two matches away from winning a World Cup. It's a dream come true. Hopefully we can achieve it. Everyone is watching these matches, and being able to bring this joy is a source of pride."

Semi-Final Awaits

Spain will now face France in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. Two European giants loaded with world-class talent will battle in Dallas for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.

Match Summary

FIFA World Cup 2026™ – Quarter-final Los Angeles Stadium

Spain 2-1 Belgium

Scorers:

⚽ Fabian Ruiz (30') ⚽ Charles De Ketelaere (41') ⚽ Mikel Merino (88')

Player of the Match: Lamine Yamal (Spain)

Semi-final: Spain vs France – Dallas Stadium