Spain Edges Belgium 2-1: Mikel Merino's Late Heroics Secure Semi-Final Spot

Spain has officially secured its place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a high-stakes encounter against Belgium. In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, Spain emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline at the iconic Los Angeles Stadium. The quarter-final clash was a testament to Spain's resilience and tactical depth, as they managed to overcome a formidable Belgian side in the dying moments of the game. The spotlight once again fell on Mikel Merino, whose knack for delivering under pressure has become a defining feature of Spain's campaign in this tournament. Merino's contribution wasn't just a goal; it was a historic moment that propelled his team further into the competition.

First Half: A Balanced Contest

The match began with both teams displaying intense energy and tactical discipline. Spain took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz found the back of the net, sending the Spanish supporters into a frenzy. Ruiz's clinical finish was the result of a well-coordinated attacking move that dismantled the Belgian defense. However, Belgium was quick to respond and didn't let the pressure get to them. In the 41st minute, Charles De Ketelaere capitalized on a defensive lapse from Spain to score the equalizer. De Ketelaere's goal ensured that both teams headed into the halftime break with the score leveled at 1-1, setting the stage for a dramatic and unpredictable second half. The first 45 minutes showcased the high level of competition expected in a World Cup quarter-final.

The Second Half and Merino's Decisive Blow

The second half of the game was characterized by a fierce battle for possession and several missed opportunities from both sides. As the clock ticked towards the 90-minute mark, it appeared that the match was destined for extra time. However, Mikel Merino, who entered the game as a substitute, had other plans. In the 88th minute, Merino showcased his exceptional positioning and composure by scoring the winning goal. This late strike ensured Spain's victory and avoided the exhaustion of additional play. Merino's ability to change the game in the final minutes has become his trademark, as he once again proved to be the ultimate super-sub for the Spanish national team.

A Habit of Late Goals and Historical Records

Mikel Merino's heroics against Belgium weren't an isolated incident. In the Round of 16, he played a similarly crucial role against Portugal, where he scored in the 91st minute during the first minute of extra time to secure a win for Spain. His history of late-game dominance extends back to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals against Germany, where he scored a dramatic goal in the 119th minute. With his latest performance, Merino has set a remarkable record in FIFA World Cup history. He's the first player ever to score winning goals in two different knockout matches as a substitute, while Also, he's the first Spanish player since David Villa in 2010 to score in consecutive World Cup knockout matches. Merino's consistent performance in high-pressure situations has solidified his status as a legendary figure in Spanish football history.