World Cup 2026: Mikel Merino sends Spain into semi-finals after late winner against Belgium

Substitute Mikel Merino struck late to send Spain into the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium.

The midfielder came off the bench to score the decisive goal in the 88th minute, finishing from close range after the ball fell kindly inside the box to secure Spain's place in the final four.

Spain will now face France in the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a second World Cup title.

Fabian Ruiz gives Spain early advantage

Spain started strongly and created the first major opportunity of the match when Dani Olmo collected a loose pass inside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful low effort in the 30th minute.

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was alert, however, and comfortably saved the attempt.

Moments later, Spain found the breakthrough.

Fabian Ruiz reacted quickest to a rebound inside the box and fired a low finish into the middle of the goal to put Spain ahead.

Fabian Ruiz breaks the deadlock #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/rLTAOryIcQ

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 10, 2026

Belgium respond through De Ketelaere

Belgium refused to be shaken by conceding and levelled the contest before half-time.

In the 41st minute, Charles De Ketelaere produced a composed finish from close range, heading the ball into the left side of the net after a well-delivered cross from Timothy Castagne.

The equaliser ensured the two sides went into the break level at 1-1.

Charles De Ketelaere levels it for The Red Devils ????????#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/Ngqpn7EHAG

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 10, 2026

Merino delivers late Spain drama

The second half saw chances at both ends, with Courtois once again proving crucial for Belgium.

In the 63rd minute, Mikel Oyarzabal found himself unmarked inside the box and attempted to place his shot into the bottom-right corner, but Courtois produced a superb last-ditch save to keep Belgium alive.

However, Spain eventually found the winning goal two minutes from the end of normal time.

Merino reacted quickly after the ball broke loose inside the area, firing the rebound into the middle of the goal in the 88th minute to complete a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Mikel Merino puts Spain back in front ????#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/O3k2fmIFdF

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 10, 2026

Spain set for France showdown

The win keeps Spain's World Cup ambitions alive and sets up a mouth-watering semi-final clash against France.

With both nations among the tournament favourites, the meeting promises to be one of the biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story