Spain Beat Belgium 2-1 to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals; Mikel Merino's Late Goal Sets Up France Clash
- By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, Toronto
- Jul 11, 2026
- 181
Spain produced another late show to defeat Belgium 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, where they will meet France in one of the tournament's biggest fixtures. Super-sub Mikel Merino once again emerged as Spain's hero, scoring the decisive goal in the closing stages to send La Roja into the last four.
The semi-final between Spain and France is scheduled for July 14, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
Merino Strikes Late to Seal Spain's Victory
The quarter-final at Los Angeles Stadium remained finely balanced at 1-1 until the 88th minute. Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to control a powerful attempt from Pau Cubarsí, allowing Mikel Merino to react quickest and fire home the rebound.
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It was Merino's second successive match-winning goal in the knockout rounds after his late strike against Portugal in the Round of 16, reinforcing his reputation as Spain's ultimate impact substitute.
Spain Return to the World Cup Last Four
The victory sends Spain into the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2010. The 2010 champions are now just one win away from another appearance in football's biggest final.
Fabian Ruiz Opens the Scoring
Spain dominated possession during the opening half and deservedly took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz.
Belgium responded before halftime as Charles De Ketelaere headed home the equaliser in the 41st minute, ending Spain's remarkable defensive streak and scoring the first goal against them in the tournament.
Courtois Injury Changes the Match
Belgium suffered a major setback when experienced goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with a thigh injury in the second half.
Backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens replaced him but endured a difficult finish, with his rebound error leading directly to Merino's match-winning goal.
Spain Equal Historic Unbeaten Record
Spain extended their unbeaten run to 36 consecutive international matches, matching Argentina's impressive streak between 2019 and 2022.
Only Italy's world-record unbeaten run of 37 matches now stands ahead of the Spanish side.
Merino's Inspiring Comeback
Merino's performances are even more remarkable considering he suffered a serious stress fracture in his right foot earlier this year.
After undergoing surgery and spending months in rehabilitation, the midfielder returned in time for the World Cup and has now scored decisive goals in consecutive knockout matches.
World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals Continue
The remaining quarter-final fixtures between Norway vs England and Argentina vs Switzerland will determine the second semi-final pairing of the tournament.
Spain vs France: A Blockbuster Semi-Final Awaits
The upcoming clash between Spain and France promises to be one of the standout matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Spain enter the contest with their trademark possession-based football, while France possess explosive pace, physicality and one of the tournament's strongest attacking units. With a place in the final on the line, football fans can expect a thrilling European showdown.
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