Merino’s Late Strike Sends Spain Past Belgium Into World Cup Semi-Finals  

By Victor Idajili

Spain are through to the World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 win over Belgium on Friday, sealed by a late winner from Mikel Merino.

The 2026 quarter-final was tight until the very end. Fabian Ruiz gave Spain the lead on 30 minutes, pouncing on the rebound after Dani Olmo’s shot was saved.

Belgium hit back just before halftime. Timothy Castagne whipped in a cross and Charles De Ketelaere headed past Unai Simon to make it *1-1* in the 41st minute.

The game looked set for extra time until the 88th minute. Belgium keeper Thibaut Courtois had already gone off injured and his replacement Senne Lemmens spilled a long-range shot. The ball fell perfectly to Merino, who calmly slotted home to put Spain ahead.

It was Merino’s second winner in as many games — he also scored the decisive goal against Portugal in the round of 16.

Spain were the better side for long periods, controlling possession and creating the clearer chances. The win also extends their unbeaten run in regulation time to 36 matches, just one short of Italy’s all-time record of 37.

Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain have now won all seven of their major tournament knockout games since he took charge. The 2010 world champions will face France next in the semi-final on Tuesday, July 14 at Dallas Stadium.