Mikel Merino's Late Goal Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinals

Spain advanced to the World Cup semifinals for the second time in their history with a 2-1 victory over Belgium, thanks to another late heroics from substitute Mikel Merino. Source: ABC.es

Turning point

The match turned in the 86th minute when Thibaut Courtois, who had made several saves, left the field in tears due to a thigh injury. His replacement, Senne Lammens, failed to hold a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsi, and Merino pounced on the rebound to score the winner in the 88th minute. Source: Clarín

Game flow

• Spain took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz, who converted after Dani Olmo's shot was saved. Source: La Vanguardia
• Belgium equalized just before halftime via Charles De Ketelaere, ending Unai Simón's record 650-minute unbeaten streak. Source: ABC.es
• Despite dominating possession (68%), Spain struggled to break down a compact Belgian defense until Merino's intervention. Source: Infobae

What's next

Spain will face France in the semifinals on Tuesday in Dallas. Coach Luis de la Fuente said, "It will be a clash of giants." Source: El Día The team has not lost since March 2023, an unbeaten run of 37 matches. Source: Hoy