Spain 2-1 Belgium: Mikel Merino Fires Spain into FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-finals with Late Winner
Kathmandu – Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium in an unforgettable quarter-final.
Just when extra time looked certain, substitute Mikel Merino stepped up with a dramatic winning goal in the 88th minute, sending Spanish players and supporters into wild celebrations inside SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The European heavyweights produced an entertaining contest filled with quality football, tactical battles and late drama. Belgium fought bravely throughout the night, but Spain’s patience and determination finally paid off as they secured another memorable World Cup victory.
Spain Started with Confidence
Spain entered the match determined to dominate possession from the opening whistle. Their midfield controlled the rhythm of the game, moving the ball quickly and forcing Belgium to defend deep for long periods.
Pedri, Rodri and Fabian Ruiz combined brilliantly in midfield, creating spaces with sharp passing while Belgium waited patiently for opportunities on the counterattack.
Although Belgium remained dangerous through the pace of their attackers, Spain looked more comfortable whenever they had the ball.
Fabian Ruiz Breaks the Deadlock
Spain’s pressure finally produced the opening goal in the 30th minute. Midfielder Fabian Ruiz finished calmly after an impressive attacking move that sliced through Belgium’s defensive line.
The goal rewarded Spain for their positive approach and lifted the confidence of Luis de la Fuente’s side as they continued searching for another breakthrough before halftime.
Belgium suddenly found themselves under pressure, but they refused to lose belief.
Belgium Hit Back Before the Break
Just when Spain appeared ready to take their advantage into halftime, Belgium responded brilliantly.
Charles De Ketelaere found the equaliser in the 41st minute, finishing confidently after a dangerous attacking move that caught the Spanish defence off balance.
The Belgian supporters erupted with joy as the match was level at 1-1 before the halftime whistle, setting up an exciting second half.
Second Half Became a Tactical Battle
The second period became far more intense as both coaches searched for the perfect balance between attack and defence.
Spain continued controlling possession while Belgium looked increasingly dangerous whenever they launched quick counterattacks through their experienced attackers.
Several substitutions changed the rhythm of the game. Spain introduced fresh legs including Pedri, Ferran Torres, Nico Williams and eventually Mikel Merino, while Belgium answered with changes that included Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel, Joaquin Seys, Senne Lammens and Alexis Saelemaekers.
The match became increasingly physical as every challenge carried enormous importance. Belgium captain Kevin De Bruyne received a yellow card in the 85th minute after a late challenge while trying to stop another Spanish attack.
The Turning Point
As the clock approached the final minutes, many expected the quarter-final to continue into extra time.
Spain, however, refused to slow down.
The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when substitute Mikel Merino produced the goal that changed everything.
Merino timed his run perfectly before finding the back of the net with a composed finish that left Belgium with almost no time to recover.
The stadium exploded with emotion as Spanish players rushed toward their match-winner while Belgium’s players were left stunned.
Player Impact
Fabian Ruiz once again showed why he remains one of Spain’s most reliable midfielders. His opening goal gave Spain confidence and his passing kept Belgium under pressure throughout the match.
Rodri controlled the midfield with his usual calmness, breaking up Belgian attacks while starting dangerous moves for Spain.
Substitute Mikel Merino completely changed the story of the match. Coming from the bench, he delivered exactly what Spain needed with his late winning goal.
For Belgium, Charles De Ketelaere impressed with his equaliser and energetic performance, while Kevin De Bruyne continued creating opportunities despite constant pressure from Spain’s midfield.
Belgium Leave with Pride
Belgium’s World Cup journey comes to an end, but they leave the tournament after showing courage against one of Europe’s strongest teams.
The Red Devils remained organised for most of the match and created several dangerous moments. They were only minutes away from forcing extra time before Spain’s late breakthrough.
Although disappointment filled the Belgian camp after the final whistle, the team produced a performance that earned respect throughout the tournament.
Spain Dream of Another World Cup
Spain now move one step closer to lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy once again. Their balanced squad, disciplined defence and creative midfield continue making them one of the strongest teams remaining in the competition.
The victory will also boost confidence ahead of the semi-finals, where even tougher challenges await.
Manager Luis de la Fuente will be pleased with the character shown by his players, especially their refusal to give up after Belgium’s equaliser.
Match Summary
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-final
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
- Result: Spain 2-1 Belgium
- Spain Scorers: Fabián Ruiz (30th minute), Mikel Merino (88th minute)
- Belgium Scorer: Charles De Ketelaere (41st minute)
Final Outcome Summary
Spain’s victory was built on patience, composure and belief until the very end. Fabián Ruiz gave them an early advantage, Belgium responded through Charles De Ketelaere, but substitute Mikel Merino became the hero with his unforgettable 88th-minute winner.
With this dramatic triumph, Spain advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, keeping alive their dream of becoming world champions once again, while Belgium’s impressive campaign comes to a heartbreaking end.
