Mikel Merino has developed a remarkable habit of appearing exactly when Spain need him most. The midfielder stepped off the bench and scored another late knockout winner as the Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarterfinal ended 2-1 in Los Angeles.
Spain controlled possession and created the greater attacking pressure, but Belgium refused to disappear after falling behind. With the match level and extra time approaching, Merino punished a goalkeeper mistake to send La Roja into their first World Cup semifinal since winning the tournament in 2010.
Before facing Spain, Belgium impressed with a clinical victory over the United States—revisit our full USA vs Belgium match report to see how the Red Devils booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Fabián Ruiz Rewards Spain’s Early Authority
Spain entered the quarterfinal determined to impose their rhythm. Rodri helped dictate play from midfield, while Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal moved intelligently between Belgium’s defensive lines.
Belgium initially defended with concentration, relying on Thibaut Courtois to deal with Spain’s growing pressure. However, La Roja found the breakthrough in the 30th minute when Courtois blocked Olmo’s attempt but could not direct the rebound away from danger.
Fabián Ruiz reacted immediately and converted the loose ball, giving Spain a deserved advantage. The goal reflected their sharpness around the penalty area and their ability to sustain attacks after an initial chance had been stopped.
To follow Spain’s full knockout journey, read our Spain vs Portugal match report, where La Roja survived a tense Iberian battle to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Belgium’s Response Changes the Mood
Belgium could easily have allowed Spain’s dominance to overwhelm them. Instead, the Red Devils produced an impressive response before halftime.
Timothy Castagne delivered an accurate cross from the right, and Charles De Ketelaere guided a header beyond Unai Simón to equalise. The goal ended Spain’s perfect defensive record at the tournament and ensured both teams entered the interval level.
Belgium’s equaliser also changed the psychological balance. Spain continued seeing more of the ball, but every Belgian transition carried greater danger as the contest became increasingly tense.
Courtois’ Injury Becomes a Critical Turning Point
The Spain vs Belgium World Cup battle shifted again when Courtois suffered a leg injury during the second half. The experienced goalkeeper was forced off and replaced by Senne Lammens, who entered one of the tournament’s most demanding situations.
Lammens initially handled the pressure, while Belgium defended their penalty area with commitment. Spain continued circulating possession, but their attacks lacked the decisive touch required to regain the lead.
Luis de la Fuente then introduced Merino, giving Spain another physical presence and an intelligent late runner inside the box. It was a familiar move after the Arsenal midfielder had scored the winner against Portugal in the previous round.
Merino Punishes One Late Mistake
The decisive moment arrived shortly before full time. Pau Cubarsí struck a low effort toward goal, but Lammens failed to hold the ball cleanly.
Merino reacted faster than the surrounding defenders and fired home the rebound. His late strike triggered huge celebrations among the Spanish supporters and left Belgium with almost no opportunity to respond.
The goal confirmed Merino’s growing reputation as Spain’s knockout specialist. His contribution also demonstrated the strength of De la Fuente’s squad, where substitutes are capable of deciding the biggest matches.
Why Spain’s Semifinal Return Matters
Spain’s victory represents an important milestone. La Roja had not reached a World Cup semifinal since their successful 2010 campaign, making this run a significant achievement for a new generation.
Belgium, meanwhile, can leave with frustration but also renewed optimism. They competed bravely, recovered from conceding first and pushed one of the tournament favourites until the closing stages.
Spain will now face France in Dallas on July 14. The semifinal will test Spain’s possession-based approach against France’s pace, defensive structure and dangerous transitions.
Spain’s Super-Sub Writes Another Unforgettable Chapter
The Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarterfinal was decided by preparation, awareness and one lightning-fast reaction. Belgium came close to forcing extra time, but Merino recognised the decisive opportunity before anyone else.
Spain now stand two victories away from lifting the trophy, and their dependable super-sub has already become one of the defining figures of their World Cup journey.
What was the final Spain vs Belgium score?
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 after substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive late goal.
Who opened the scoring for Spain?
Fabián Ruiz converted a rebound in the 30th minute to give Spain the lead.
How did Belgium equalise against Spain?
Charles De Ketelaere headed home Timothy Castagne’s cross shortly before the halftime interval.
Why was Thibaut Courtois substituted?
Courtois suffered a leg injury during the second half and could not continue playing.
Who scored Spain’s winning goal?
Mikel Merino reacted to Senne Lammens’ mistake and converted the rebound late in the match.
Who will Spain play in the semifinal?
Spain will face France in Dallas for a place in the 2026 World Cup final.
