Spain 2-1 Belgium: Mikel Merino’s Late Strike Sends La Roja Into FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-finals

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after Mikel Merino’s late winner secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on Friday.

Fabián Ruiz gave Spain a deserved first-half lead before Charles De Ketelaere restored parity for Belgium just before the break. With extra time looming, substitute Mikel Merino emerged as the hero, scoring in the 88th minute to seal Spain’s passage into the last four.

The result capped another composed display from Luis de la Fuente’s side, who controlled possession for long spells and consistently forced Belgium onto the defensive despite the narrow scoreline.

First Half

Spain settled into the contest quickly, dominating possession and pinning Belgium deep inside their own half during the opening exchanges. Lamine Yamal was a constant threat down the flank, while Álex Baena and Rodri both tested Belgium’s defence with early efforts that failed to find the target.

The breakthrough finally arrived on the half-hour mark after sustained Spanish pressure. Dani Olmo forced Thibaut Courtois into a save, but Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to put Spain ahead and reward their dominance.

Belgium struggled to build sustained attacks during much of the opening half but found their moment five minutes before the interval. Timothy Castagne surged forward and delivered a precise assist for Charles De Ketelaere, who finished confidently to level the match at 1-1.

The equaliser shifted the mood heading into halftime after Spain had looked firmly in control for much of the first period.

Second Half

Spain resumed where they had left off, controlling possession and repeatedly testing Belgium’s defence.

Luis de la Fuente refreshed his side shortly after the restart, introducing Ferran Torres and Pedri before later sending on Nico Williams and Mikel Merino as Spain searched for a breakthrough.

Belgium responded with changes of their own, bringing on Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel and Joaquin Seys in an attempt to gain more attacking presence.

Spain continued creating the better chances. Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal all forced saves or missed narrowly as Belgium relied heavily on Thibaut Courtois to keep the scores level.

The Belgian goalkeeper’s evening took an unfortunate turn midway through the second half when he required lengthy treatment before eventually being substituted for Senne Lammens in the 71st minute.

As the match entered its closing stages, Belgium looked increasingly content to defend and force extra time, while Spain continued to push forward.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute.

Only two minutes after coming off the bench, Mikel Merino found space inside the area and fired Spain back in front to spark celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.

Belgium attempted one final push during stoppage time but Spain managed the closing minutes professionally, limiting their opponents to few clear opportunities before referee Michael Oliver brought the contest to an end.

Key moments of the game

Merino Makes Instant Impact

Mikel Merino needed just minutes after entering the match to become Spain’s match-winner. His late strike justified Luis de la Fuente’s substitutions and ensured Spain’s dominance was reflected on the scoreboard.

Spain’s Control Finally Pays Off

Despite Belgium’s resilience, Spain dictated almost every aspect of the game. Their passing rhythm, territorial control and relentless attacking eventually broke down a stubborn Belgian defence.

Courtois Injury Added to Belgium’s Problems

Belgium suffered another setback when Thibaut Courtois was forced off after receiving treatment midway through the second half. The experienced goalkeeper had produced several important saves before making way for Senne Lammens.

What the Result Means

Spain advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after overcoming one of Europe’s strongest sides in a tightly contested quarter-final.

Belgium exit the tournament despite producing a spirited defensive display and briefly threatening to force extra time after Charles De Ketelaere’s equaliser.

Spain’s blend of patience, possession and squad depth proved decisive, with substitute Mikel Merino delivering the moment that kept La Roja’s World Cup dream alive.