Mikel Merino once again delivered a dramatic late goal to send Spain into the World Cup semi-finals, as the European champions edged past Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles. The Arsenal midfielder, introduced as a substitute in the 85th minute, pounced on a loose ball in the 87th minute to secure victory and set up a semi-final clash with France in Dallas next week.
Merino has developed a reputation for decisive interventions in major tournaments. Two years ago, his late goals propelled Spain into the semi-finals of the European Championship, and just four days earlier, he repeated the feat to guide his side through the World Cup quarter-finals. This latest strike completed a remarkable hat-trick of late winners, cementing his status as a key figure for the national team.
The match began with a significant decision from Spain's coaching staff, which was quickly vindicated as the team took an early lead. However, Belgium responded strongly, and the game remained finely balanced until the closing stages. The defining moment came when Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois, failed to hold a shot from Pau Cubarsi, allowing Merino to slot home the rebound.
Courtois, widely regarded as one of the world's best goalkeepers, was forced to watch from the bench after suffering an injury that ruled him out of the quarter-final. His absence proved costly for Belgium, as Lammens endured a nightmare debut on the World Cup stage. The young goalkeeper, who plays for Manchester United, was visibly distraught after the match, with teammates consoling him as Spain celebrated their victory.
Belgium had entered the tournament with high hopes, led by veteran playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, who was recalled to the starting lineup after recovering from a midfield selection blow. Despite a spirited performance, the Red Devils were unable to overcome the loss of their star goalkeeper and the late surge from Spain.
Spain's victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final against France, a rematch of the European Championship final two years ago. The Spanish team will travel to Dallas with confidence, buoyed by their resilience and Merino's uncanny ability to deliver when it matters most. For Belgium, the defeat marks another painful exit from a major tournament, with questions likely to arise about the future of their golden generation.
The match also highlighted the depth of Spain's squad, with substitutes like Merino proving decisive. Manager Luis de la Fuente praised his team's character and adaptability, noting that the ability to change the game from the bench is a hallmark of championship-winning sides. Spain will now prepare for a formidable French team that has also shown resilience throughout the tournament.
As the World Cup enters its final stages, Spain's dramatic victory has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Merino's late heroics have become a recurring theme, and the Spanish faithful will hope he has one more decisive moment left in him as they chase a third World Cup title.
