Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals after Mikel Merino struck in the closing minutes to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium, setting up a blockbuster clash with France.

Spain Edge Belgium in Quarterfinal Thriller to Keep World Cup Dream Alive

Spain advanced to the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring a decisive goal in the 88th minute. The European champions will now face France in a highly anticipated semifinal showdown after surviving a spirited challenge from an injury-hit Belgian side.

Played in front of a packed crowd at Los Angeles Stadium, the quarterfinal delivered high drama from start to finish, with Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere also getting on the scoresheet.

Fabian Ruiz Gives Spain the Advantage

Spain controlled much of the early proceedings, dominating possession and creating the better opportunities. Their pressure finally paid off midway through the first half when Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring, rewarding Luis de la Fuente’s side for their attacking intent.

Belgium, however, refused to back down. Despite struggling with injuries and spending long periods without the ball, the Red Devils remained dangerous on the counterattack.

Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere found the net to level the score, bringing Belgium back into the contest against the run of play.

Merino Delivers Another Decisive Blow

As the match headed towards extra time, Spain once again turned to Mikel Merino, who has developed a reputation for scoring crucial goals in the knockout stages.

The breakthrough came in the 88th minute when Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsí’s low effort, allowing Merino to react quickest and fire home the winner. The goal sent Spain into the final four and added another memorable chapter to the midfielder’s World Cup campaign.

Remarkably, Merino also scored the decisive goal in Spain’s Round-of-16 victory over Portugal, becoming the first player in World Cup history to net winning goals as a substitute in two separate knockout matches.

Injury Problems Hamper Belgium

Belgium’s challenge was complicated by a series of setbacks. Midfielder Youri Tielemans suffered an injury during the warm-up, while star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off in the second half.

Although Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku attempted to inspire a comeback, Belgium struggled to contain Spain’s relentless pressure in the closing stages. Courtois’ absence proved particularly costly, with his replacement unable to prevent Merino’s late winner.

Despite the defeat, Belgium’s run to the quarterfinals showcased the resilience and quality of a squad that had already produced dramatic victories earlier in the tournament.

Blockbuster Semifinal Against France Awaits

Spain’s victory sets up a mouth-watering semifinal clash against France in Dallas on July 14. France secured their place in the final four after defeating Morocco, while Spain arrive carrying momentum and an impressive unbeaten run.

The meeting will pit two of international football’s strongest sides against each other, with Spain aiming to reach their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010.

Why This Matters

Spain’s victory reinforces their status as one of the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026. The team’s ability to produce decisive moments late in matches has been a defining feature of their campaign, while Merino’s impact from the bench continues to prove invaluable.

For Belgium, the defeat marks the end of a spirited tournament run, while questions remain over the future of several experienced players.

Conclusion

Mikel Merino once again emerged as Spain’s hero, scoring a late winner to seal a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium and send La Roja into the World Cup semifinals. After goals from Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere had left the teams level, Merino’s intervention ensured Spain’s dream of a second world title remains alive. Attention now turns to a blockbuster semifinal against France, with a place in the final at stake.

Key Takeaways

• Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals.
• Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 88th minute.
• Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring, while Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium.
• Spain will face France in the semifinals.
• Merino has now scored decisive goals in two consecutive knockout matches.

FAQs

Who scored for Spain against Belgium?
Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino scored Spain’s goals in the 2-1 victory.

Who scored Belgium’s goal?
Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium before halftime.

Who will Spain play in the semifinals?
Spain will face France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals.

Why was Mikel Merino’s goal significant?
His 88th-minute strike secured Spain’s place in the semifinals and made him the first substitute to score winning goals in two separate World Cup knockout matches.

What affected Belgium’s performance?
Belgium were hampered by injuries, including the loss of Thibaut Courtois and Youri Tielemans.

Category: FIFA World Cup 2026 | Football | Sports