Mikel Merino Super-Sub Merino sends Spain past Belgium into World Cup semi-finals

Spain reached the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after Mikel Merino came off the bench to score a dramatic late winner in a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Inglewood, California.

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The Arsenal midfielder struck in the 88th minute after substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsi’s shot. Merino reacted quickly and fired home from close range to secure Spain’s place in the last four.

The goal continued Merino’s remarkable impact as a substitute. Earlier this week, he scored an injury-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16.

Spain will now face France in the semi-finals on Tuesday in Arlington, Texas. France are chasing a third consecutive World Cup final after winning the tournament in 2018 and finishing runners-up in 2022.

Meanwhile, Spain have reached the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since lifting their only title in 2010.

Fabian Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute after converting a rebound from Dani Olmo’s saved effort. However, Belgium responded before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere powered in a header from Timothy Castagne’s cross.

The equaliser ended goalkeeper Unai Simon’s remarkable World Cup streak of 650 minutes without conceding a goal, dating back to the 2022 tournament.

Belgium suffered another setback when first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the match in the 71st minute with an apparent leg injury. Senne Lammens replaced him but could not prevent Spain’s late winner.

Both sides created chances after the break. Lamine Yamal twice came close for Spain, while Kevin De Bruyne tested Simon at the other end. Courtois also denied Mikel Oyarzabal before leaving the field.

Spain maintained their composure in the closing minutes. Aymeric Laporte produced a crucial goal-line clearance during stoppage time to protect the lead.

The victory extended Spain’s unbeaten run to a national record of 36 matches. In contrast, Belgium saw their 18-match unbeaten streak come to an end.