Merino's Touch of Gold: Super-sub's late strike sends Spain into the semi-finals, ending Belgium's run in the World Cup

Mikel Merino has been Spain's super-sub since 2024. (Image credits - Veci verejné, License Details)

Spain advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final match in Los Angeles. A late goal from Spain's super-sub hero proved decisive once more, breaking Belgian hearts and setting up a mouth-watering semi-final clash with high-flying France.

Luis de la Fuente's team entered this match as favourites after defeating Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in brutal fashion. La Roja remained the only team yet to concede a goal in the tournament, while Rudi Garcia's Belgium gradually gained momentum following a comeback win over Senegal in the Round of 32 and a thrashing of the hosts, the United States, in the Round of 16.

Despite losing key midfielders Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana, they were far from considered underdogs going into a crucial knockout match.

Spain dominated possession from the start, as expected, but were forced to be patient against a disciplined Belgian defence. De la Fuente's team finally got their chance in the 30th minute, when Fabian Ruiz reacted quickly after Dani Olmo's initial strike was parried away. La Roja deserved the lead because they dominated the first half, and Rodri and Ruiz's midfield suffocated Belgium completely.

However, Belgium quickly demonstrated their mettle by reacting to Spain's careless ball movement on the pitch. Against the run of play, veteran Timothy Castagne delivered an excellent cross into the box, which Charles De Ketelaere met and headed past Unai Simon.

This goal not only levelled the score, but it was also the first goal to penetrate the La Roja defence in the World Cup. Simon conceded his first goal in over 650 minutes of World Cup play, setting a new record.

The second half featured a tactical battle between Luis de la Fuente and Rudi Garcia. Spain maintained possession, while Belgium remained compact and disciplined at the back.

While Spain appeared a little flat from the wings, with Lamine Yamal unable to operate with the same intensity, Belgium looked dangerous on the break, particularly with Jeremy Doku. Thibaut Courtois also made several outstanding saves to keep Belgium in the game and prevent Spain from scoring.

Belgium suffered a decisive setback in the 70th minute when Courtois was forced off due to an injury, leaving the pitch in tears. He was replaced by Manchester United's starting custodian, Senne Lammens, and was under intense pressure. With extra time looming, Spain finally scored the winning goal.

Mikel Merino scored from close range in the 88th minute, just two minutes after replacing Pau Cubarsi. The Arsenal midfielder capitalised on his error and fired home, sending Spanish fans into jubilation and Belgium crashing out in heartbreaking fashion, just like Portugal.

Spain's performance was far from convincing, but the determination to win defines champions. They were tested far more than in previous rounds, but they still managed to win the game.

Aside from that one moment in the first half, their midfield controlled the tempo and appeared to be solid defensively. Lamine Yamal was named man of the match, but he was far from convincing and must improve his clinical play in the next game.

Belgium, on the other hand, will leave the World Cup with many positive signs. Many of their veteran players, including Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel, and Timothy Castagne, played their final games.

While the previous golden generation departs, the new generation has proven that they can also lead this side. Charles De Ketelaere performed admirably alongside Nicolas Raskin and Maxim De Cuyper.

Spain will focus on a massive challenge against France in the semi-finals. A clash between two of Europe's heavyweights and favourites to win the World Cup. With Mikel Merino proving decisive and playing perfectly as a team, De La Fuente's side will look to win their second World Cup title after reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2010.