World Cup 2026: Merino’s Late Heroics Send Spain Past Belgium into Semi-Finals
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Mikel Merino once again proved to be Spain’s ultimate super-sub as his late winner sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium, sending La Roja into the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder, who also delivered the decisive goal against Portugal in the Round of 16, struck two minutes from time to break Belgian hearts after an enthralling contest between two European heavyweights at SoFi Stadium in California.
Spain dominated the early exchanges and immediately imposed themselves on the game, but Belgium’s disciplined defensive structure, marshalled by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, frustrated Luis de la Fuente’s side for much of the opening half hour.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 30th minute following a flowing move down the right flank. Lamine Yamal combined brilliantly with Pedro Porro before the Tottenham full-back drilled a dangerous low cross into the penalty area.
Courtois managed to parry Dani Olmo’s initial effort, but the rebound fell kindly for Fabián Ruiz, who reacted quickest to slot home from close range and hand Spain a deserved lead.
Belgium gradually grew into the contest and found an equaliser just before the interval.
Right-back Timothy Castagne battled his way into space before delivering a pinpoint cross into the box, where Charles De Ketelaere shrugged off his marker and powered a superb header beyond Unai Simón to level the scores at 1-1.
The second half developed into a tense tactical battle, with both teams searching for the decisive breakthrough while remaining wary of leaving space at the back.
As extra time appeared inevitable, Spain struck with devastating effect in the 88th minute.
Young defender Pau Cubarsí unleashed a powerful effort from distance that Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold. Merino reacted quickest inside the six-yard box, smashing the loose ball into the roof of the net to spark wild celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Belgium pushed desperately for another equaliser in the closing moments, but Spain defended resolutely to secure another famous victory and continue their impressive World Cup campaign.
The win sends La Roja into a mouthwatering semi-final showdown against France in Arlington, Texas, as two of Europe’s footballing giants battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
For Belgium, the defeat brings an end to a spirited tournament run, while Spain’s dream of lifting a second World Cup title remains very much alive, inspired once again by the timely brilliance of Mikel Merino.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
