Spain secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles as Mikel Merino’s late winner booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals.
Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium on Saturday, thanks to an 88th-minute winner from Mikel Merino in a thrilling quarter-final clash in Los Angeles.
Spain controlled possession from the opening whistle and consistently threatened Belgium’s defense with fluid attacking football. Their dominance was rewarded in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz calmly finished a well-crafted move to give the former world champions a deserved lead.
Belgium responded with determination before halftime. Charles De Ketelaere equalized in the 41st minute, scoring the first goal Spain had conceded throughout the tournament and ensuring the teams went into the break level at 1-1.
The second half turned into a tense contest, with both sides creating opportunities but struggling to find the decisive breakthrough. Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Mikel Merino produced the match-winning moment by firing home in the 88th minute, sending Spanish supporters into celebration.
Belgium pressed aggressively in the closing moments, but Spain’s disciplined defense held firm to protect the lead and secure a place in the tournament’s final four.
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