Merino’s Late Heroics Send Spain Past Belgium Into World Cup Semi-finals

European champions Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium, with Mikel Merino striking a late winner to set up a blockbuster last-four clash against France.

Spain looked to be heading for extra time before Merino emerged as the hero, scoring in the 88th minute after Belgium failed to deal with a loose ball in the penalty area. The late breakthrough sealed another hard-fought victory for Luis de la Fuente’s side, who continue their quest for a second World Cup title.

La Roja had taken the lead in the 41st minute through Fabián Ruiz, whose composed finish capped a spell of Spanish dominance. However, Belgium responded almost immediately as Charles De Ketelaere headed home from Timothy Castagne’s cross just two minutes later to restore parity before the interval.

The second half was a tense and evenly contested affair, with both sides creating opportunities but struggling to find the decisive touch. Belgium captain Kevin De Bruyne was booked in the closing stages as frustration grew, before Merino delivered the decisive blow with just two minutes of normal time remaining.

Spain successfully managed the closing minutes despite late yellow cards for Aymeric Laporte, while Belgium’s Axel Witsel was also cautioned as the Red Devils’ hopes of forcing extra time faded.

The victory sends Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face France in a mouth-watering encounter between two of Europe’s football heavyweights. France secured their place in the last four after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the opening quarter-final.

Belgium, meanwhile, bow out of the tournament after an impressive run to the quarter-finals, while Spain remain firmly on course to add the World Cup crown to the European Championship they won before arriving in North America.