Mikel Merino Makes FIFA World Cup History as Spain Reach Semi-Finals
- Mikel Merino scored the 88th-minute winner to become the first substitute in World Cup history to net match-winning goals in two different knockout matches
- La Roja finished with 61% possession, 17 shots to Belgium’s five and completed 625 passes during another commanding display
- Spain extended their unbeaten streak to 36 matches, equalling Argentina’s record
- Spain advance to face France in Dallas on July 14 for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final
Super-sub Mikel Merino once again proved Spain’s knockout-stage hero, scoring a dramatic late winner as La Roja defeated Belgium 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals to book a mouthwatering semi-final against France.
Merino, who also came off the bench to score the decisive goal against Portugal in the Round of 16, became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score match-winning goals as a substitute in two different knockout matches.
Spain dominated possession and created the clearer chances throughout the contest before Merino’s 88th-minute strike finally broke Belgium’s resistance in front of a packed crowd at Los Angeles Stadium.
Ruiz opens scoring before Belgium respond
Spain controlled proceedings from the opening whistle, using their trademark possession-based football to pin Belgium deep inside their own half.
The pressure eventually paid off in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz finished off a flowing move to give the European champions a deserved lead.
Belgium, however, responded just before halftime. Charles De Ketelaere capitalized on one of the visitors’ few attacking opportunities to level the score and send the sides into the break tied at 1-1 despite Spain’s territorial dominance.
Merino delivers again
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain dictating possession while Belgium defended resolutely and looked to threaten on the counterattack.
Luis de la Fuente introduced Merino from the bench late in the match, and the midfielder once again produced the decisive contribution.
In the 88th minute, Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens, deputising after Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured, failed to hold Pau Cubarsí’s powerful effort. Merino reacted quickest to convert the rebound from close range and send Spain into the semi-finals.
Following the match, Merino reflected on his latest decisive contribution.
“It seems like a coincidence, and if you go in prepared, it can happen again. I’m thrilled. I doubt it will happen again, we’ll see,” Merino told FIFA.
“Two matches to win a World Cup is a dream come true – hopefully we can achieve it.”
Spain’s dominance reflected in statistics
Spain’s superiority was evident across nearly every major statistical category.
La Roja enjoyed 61% possession, completed 625 of 693 passes, attempted 17 shots compared to Belgium’s five and forced eight saves or shots on target. Spain also earned five corners while limiting Belgium to just one.
The midfield trio of Rodri, Pedri and Fabian Ruiz consistently controlled the tempo, while Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro repeatedly stretched Belgium’s defense down the flanks.
The victory also extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 36 international matches, equaling Argentina’s record.
France await in blockbuster semi-final
Spain will now face France in Dallas on July 14, renewing one of international football’s biggest rivalries for a place in the FIFA World Cup final.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente welcomed the challenge and backed his players to continue their impressive run.
“It’s the character of the team. It’s an honour to coach a team so committed and eager to improve,” De la Fuente told FIFA.
“It’s fair to think we can beat France. We’re going to work hard for it. We’re the only team that has managed to beat them twice. A great team is going to face another great team.”
Belgium exit the tournament after another spirited performance, with their “golden generation” once again falling short of reaching the final four.
