Mikel Merino’s remarkable run as Spain’s match winner continued on Friday night as the midfielder scored another late goal to seal a 2-1 victory over Belgium and send La Roja into the semi finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Just four days after his stoppage-time winner eliminated Portugal in the Round of 16, Merino once again proved decisive, this time scoring in the 88th minute to settle a fiercely contested quarterfinal in Los Angeles.
For Belgium, the defeat was made even more painful by the loss of captain Thibaut Courtois, who was forced off with an injury in the second half and left the pitch in tears.
Spain came into the last-eight clash after edging Portugal through Merino’s late winner, while Belgium had booked their place in the quarterfinals with an impressive 4-1 victory over the United States.
The Spaniards made the brighter start and were rewarded in the 30th minute. Dani Olmo’s effort was parried by Courtois, but Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to turn home the rebound and give Luis de la Fuente’s side the lead.
Belgium responded before half-time through Charles De Ketelaere, whose well-placed header in the 41st minute brought the Red Devils level and ended Spain’s run without conceding a goal at the tournament.
The second half was evenly balanced, with both teams creating openings but struggling to find the breakthrough. Lamine Yamal continued to trouble Belgium with his direct running, while Olmo remained at the heart of Spain’s attacking play. Belgium looked to Kevin De Bruyne to provide inspiration before Romelu Lukaku was introduced as they searched for a winning goal.
Midway through the second half, Belgium suffered a major setback when Courtois pulled up with what appeared to be a thigh injury. The experienced goalkeeper briefly tried to continue but was eventually substituted, leaving the field visibly emotional as Senne Lammens replaced him.
With extra time appearing inevitable, Spain found the goal that settled the contest.
In the 88th minute, Pau Cubarsí tried his luck from distance and Lammens could only push the ball back into a dangerous area. Merino was first to react, calmly finishing from close range to put Spain back in front.
It was another decisive contribution from the midfielder, who has now scored match-winning late goals in successive knockout games against Portugal and Belgium.
Belgium committed numbers forward during seven minutes of stoppage time and appealed for a late penalty, but Spain remained composed defensively and held on to secure their place in the semi finals.
The victory sets up a heavyweight meeting with France in the last four as Spain continue their bid for another World Cup title.
Belgium, meanwhile, bow out after another strong tournament, with Courtois’ injury and Merino’s late winner combining to bring their campaign to a disappointing end.
