Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final encounter. Once again, Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s unlikely hero, coming off the bench to score a decisive late winner for the second consecutive knockout match.
Having already rescued Spain against Portugal in the Round of 16 with a dramatic stoppage-time goal, Merino repeated the feat against Belgium by finding the net just two minutes after entering the pitch. His impact reinforced Spain’s incredible squad depth and highlighted why Luis de la Fuente’s side remains among the favourites to lift the World Cup trophy.
First Half: Spain Strike First but Belgium Respond
Spain started the match with their trademark possession-based football, controlling the tempo from kickoff and pinning Belgium deep inside their own half.
Their early dominance was rewarded in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz finished a well-worked move after clever build-up play through midfield. The goal reflected Spain’s patience and technical superiority as they consistently stretched Belgium’s defensive shape.
Belgium gradually grew into the contest and found an equaliser before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere in the 41st minute. The forward capitalised on a rare defensive lapse to level the score and give Belgium renewed belief heading into the break.
At halftime, the match was finely poised at 1-1, setting up an exciting second period.
Spain Stay Patient as Belgium Hold Firm
The second half saw Spain dominate possession once again while Belgium remained organised defensively and threatened on quick counter-attacks.
Spain created several opportunities but found it difficult to break through Belgium’s disciplined backline. Luis de la Fuente looked to his bench for inspiration, introducing Mikel Merino in the 86th minute, hoping the midfielder could once again provide fresh energy.
That decision proved decisive.
Mikel Merino Delivers Another Super-Sub Performance
Just two minutes after coming on, Merino scored in the 88th minute, sending Spanish fans into celebration.
The midfielder timed his run perfectly before calmly finishing past the Belgian goalkeeper to restore Spain’s lead when it mattered most.
Remarkably, this was almost a replay of Spain’s previous knockout victory:
- vs Portugal
- Entered in the 85th minute
- Scored the winner in the 90+1st minute
- vs Belgium
- Entered in the 86th minute
- Scored the winner in the 88th minute
His remarkable ability to influence games from the bench has quickly made him one of the standout performers of the tournament despite limited minutes on the pitch.
Key Match Moments
- 30′ – Fabián Ruiz gives Spain a deserved lead.
- 41′ – Charles De Ketelaere equalises for Belgium before halftime.
- 86′ – Mikel Merino enters the match as Spain search for a winner.
- 88′ – Merino scores the decisive goal to send Spain into the World Cup semi-finals.
- Full Time: Spain 2-1 Belgium.
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.
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Conclusion
Spain’s 2-1 victory over Belgium showcased the qualities of champions—patience, composure and a squad capable of producing match-winning moments from every position. Once again, Mikel Merino proved to be Spain’s ultimate super-sub, scoring the decisive goal that secured a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
With confidence soaring and momentum firmly on their side, La Roja move one step closer to reclaiming football’s biggest prize, while Belgium depart after a spirited campaign that ultimately ended in heartbreak.
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