Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a dramatic 2–1 victory over Belgium, thanks to another late strike from Mikel Merino, the man quickly earning the reputation as Spain’s “super-sub.”

Match Details

• Fixture: Spain vs Belgium
• Stage: Quarter-Final
• Final Score: Spain 2–1 Belgium
• Goals:
  • 30’ – Fabián Ruiz (Spain)
  • 41’ – Charles De Ketelaere (Belgium)
  • 88’ – Mikel Merino (Spain)

Key Match Moments

Ruiz Opens the Scoring

Spain took control early when Fabián Ruiz slotted home in the 30th minute, giving La Roja the advantage and setting the tone for a high-tempo clash.

Belgium Fight Back

Belgium responded swiftly, with Charles De Ketelaere equalizing in the 41st minute. The Red Devils showed resilience, keeping Spain under pressure heading into halftime.

Merino – Spain’s Super-Sub

For the second consecutive match, Mikel Merino came off the bench to deliver a decisive blow. Subbed on in the 86th minute, he scored just two minutes later, sealing Spain’s passage to the semi-finals.

Merino’s impact mirrors his performance against Portugal, where he scored in stoppage time after coming on late. His ability to change games has made him Spain’s unexpected hero.

Spain Continue Their Impressive World Cup Run

Spain have continued to impress throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup with disciplined defending, intelligent possession football and exceptional squad depth.

Luis de la Fuente’s side has now eliminated two strong European rivals in succession, overcoming Portugal before knocking out Belgium. While stars like Fabián Ruiz, Pedri and Lamine Yamal have consistently delivered quality performances, Spain’s substitutes have also made a huge difference during the knockout rounds.

Merino’s latest match-winning cameo perfectly illustrates the strength of Spain’s entire squad and their ability to change games from the bench.

Belgium Exit After Brave Display

Belgium can leave the tournament with plenty of pride despite the defeat.

The Red Devils showed resilience after falling behind and fought back through De Ketelaere’s first-half equaliser. They defended bravely for long periods and looked capable of forcing extra time before Merino’s late intervention broke Belgian hearts.

Their World Cup journey ends in the quarter-finals, but several young players gained valuable experience on football’s biggest stage.

What This Result Means

• Spain: Into the semi-finals, continuing their quest for World Cup glory.
• Belgium: Eliminated, despite a spirited performance.
• Merino: Cemented his reputation as Spain’s clutch player, scoring in back-to-back knockout matches.

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Spain’s victory over Belgium was a classic knockout battle, defined by resilience, drama, and a late hero. With Merino stepping up once again, La Roja march into the semi-finals with confidence and momentum.

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