Last-Minute Merino Magic Sends Spain Past Belgium, Sets Up Semi-Final Clash with France

Staff Report: PNN

Until the final whistle, the match appeared destined for extra time. But once again, Spain proved that football is a game of moments. A late goal from substitute Mikel Merino, capitalizing on a mistake by Belgium’s reserve goalkeeper, secured a 2-1 victory for La Roja and booked their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Spain will now face a formidable France side in the last four.

In the quarter-final held in California, Spain dominated possession from the beginning and were rewarded for their attacking approach. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the first half with a precise strike, putting the Spanish side ahead.

However, Belgium refused to surrender easily. Charles De Ketelaere restored parity through a quick counterattack, becoming the first player in the entire tournament to breach Spain’s defense.

The pace of the match increased further after the break. Spain continued to launch wave after wave of attacks but struggled to find the finishing touch. Belgium, meanwhile, remained dangerous on the counterattack while maintaining defensive discipline. As the clock ticked away, the match seemed increasingly likely to head into extra time.

But drama unfolded in the closing moments of regulation time. Defender Pau Cubarsi unleashed a long-range effort that Belgium’s substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold properly. The loose ball fell perfectly for Mikel Merino, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net. That goal sealed Spain’s place in the semi-finals.

Luck also appeared to be against Belgium throughout the match. Before kickoff, captain Youri Tielemans was ruled out after suffering an injury during the warm-up. Later in the second half, experienced goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury. His replacement Lammens eventually made the decisive mistake that ended Belgium’s hopes.

The defeat left the Belgian camp devastated. Many believe this could mark the final chapter of the country’s much-discussed “Golden Generation” at the World Cup. The future of experienced stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Courtois has already become a major topic of discussion.

For Spain, however, this victory represents more than just another win. It is a story of resilience and overcoming challenges. From the group stage to the knockout rounds, the team has faced different kinds of tests at every step. Against Belgium, their patience and determination until the final moments earned them a place in the semi-finals.

Now, an even bigger challenge awaits. Spain will face world number one France next Tuesday at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. Football analysts believe this semi-final is not only a battle for a place in the final but also a potential title-deciding clash, as the winner will enter the championship match as one of the strongest contenders for the World Cup trophy.