Spain reaches World Cup semi-final to face France after late winner over Belgium
Mikel Merino's 88th-minute rebound secured a dramatic victory over Belgium for Spain, setting up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against tournament favorites France.
Spain has secured a place in the World Cup semi-final after Mikel Merino scored an 88th-minute winner to defeat Belgium at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The victory sets up a highly anticipated clash against France in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday.
The European champions were pushed to their limits in a tense quarter-final watched by a crowd of 70,492. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain with a precise finish in the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium just before halftime. It was the first time the Spanish defense had been breached during the competition.
The match appeared destined for extra time until substitute Merino capitalized on a defensive error. Pau Cubarsi fired a shot from 25 yards out that Belgian goalkeeper Koen Lammens failed to hold, allowing Merino to tap in the rebound just two minutes after entering the pitch.
Merino has now delivered the decisive goal in consecutive knockout rounds, having also scored against Portugal in the last 16. "It seems like a coincidence, and if you go in prepared, it can happen again," Merino said. "I'm thrilled. I doubt it will happen again, we'll see."
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente described the upcoming semi-final against France as "a final before the final" given the high quality of both squads. France advanced to the last four by comfortably defeating Morocco 2-0 on Thursday and are now viewed as the tournament favorites.
Lamine Yamal was named player of the match, growing in influence down the right flank after a relatively quiet tournament. However, the Spanish defense showed vulnerability at times, a factor France will certainly note as they prepare for the clash.
The heartbreak for Belgium was compounded by an injury to first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the second half. Courtois consoled his replacement Lammens after the final whistle. "I gave him a big hug. He's a great goalkeeper. He only gets stronger from this," Courtois said.
The late drama underscores Spain's resilience as they advance deeper into the competition. Merino noted the team's readiness for the challenge ahead, stating, "We came here for this and we're confident in our abilities. It is one of those games you dream of as a kid."
