Mikel Merino once again delivered a dramatic late goal to propel Spain into the World Cup semi-finals, securing a 1-0 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles. The substitute, introduced in the 85th minute, pounced on a loose ball in the 87th minute to break the deadlock and send Spain through to face France next week.
A Familiar Hero Emerges
Merino, who scored crucial late goals in the 2022 European Championship semi-final and the 2024 World Cup quarter-final, repeated his heroics with a well-timed run and finish. The goal came as Spain struggled to find a way past a resilient Belgian defense, with the match seemingly headed for extra time.
Belgium were dealt a significant blow before the match with the absence of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois due to injury. His replacement was unable to prevent Merino's decisive strike.
Road to the Final
Spain will now prepare for a semi-final clash against France, a rematch of the 2022 European Championship final which Spain won. The victory extends Spain's unbeaten run in the tournament and keeps their hopes of a first World Cup title since 2010 alive.
Belgium, meanwhile, will rue missed opportunities and the costly injury to Courtois, which many analysts believe tilted the balance in Spain's favor.
