Spain Edge Belgium 2-1 to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals with Late Merino Winner

• Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after Mikel Merino’s late goal sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in a thrilling quarter-final clash.

Spain have advanced to the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a hard-fought quarter-final at SoFi Stadium.

Fabián Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere restored parity for Belgium with a powerful header 11 minutes later.

With extra time looming, Mikel Merino struck in the 88th minute to send Spain into the last four.

Despite the defeat, Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced a series of outstanding saves and was named Sofascore’s Player of the Match for his impressive performance.

Spain Dominated the Match

The statistics highlighted Spain’s dominance throughout the contest:

• 68% possession
• 17 shots compared to Belgium’s 5
• 8 shots on target to Belgium’s 2
• 2.08 expected goals (xG) compared to Belgium’s 0.37
• 42 touches inside Belgium’s penalty area

Spain also completed 598 of 665 passes, maintaining relentless pressure and controlling possession for most of the game.

How the Goals Came

Spain broke the deadlock in the 30th minute after a flowing attacking move. Dani Olmo’s effort was saved, but Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to slot home the rebound.

Belgium responded in the 41st minute when Timothy Castagne delivered a pinpoint cross for Charles De Ketelaere, who rose highest to head past goalkeeper Unai Simón.

The decisive moment came just two minutes from time as Mikel Merino capitalised on a defensive mistake to fire home the winner and send Spain into the semi-finals.

Spain will now continue their quest for World Cup glory after another commanding display, while Belgium’s tournament comes to an end despite Courtois’ heroic efforts between the posts.