Spain Reaches World Cup Semi-Final as Merino’s Late Winner Sinks Belgium
Spain reaches World Cup semi-final after Mikel Merino’s late goal secured a 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium in the 2026 World Cup; La Roja face France on July 14.
Spain reached the 2026 World Cup semi-final on Saturday after Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner to beat Belgium 2-1 and book a last-four meeting with France. The decisive moment came deep in the second half when Spain capitalized on an error by Belgium’s substitute goalkeeper to turn a tightly contested match in their favour. With the victory, La Roja advance to a semifinal that has been billed across Europe as a high-stakes clash between two continental heavyweights. The result continues Spain’s run of deep tournament progress and sets up a July 14 showdown with Les Bleus.
Late Strike Sends Spain Through
Spain controlled large periods of the quarter-final but the breakthrough only arrived in the closing stages, underlining the match’s tense balance. Merino, introduced into the contest earlier, reacted quickest after a spilled ball to guide Spain into the lead in the 88th minute. The goal ended Belgium’s resistance and denied their supporters a late recovery, turning what had been a cautious encounter into an immediate qualification celebration. That last-gasp finish preserved Spain’s unbeaten record in the knockout rounds of this tournament.
Goalkeeper Change and Decisive Error
Belgium’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury, bringing Senne Lammens into the goal at a critical juncture. Lammens’ misjudgement on the late delivery allowed the ball to spill into play and provided Merino the opportunity to convert. The error proved decisive and was widely described in international coverage as the turning point of the match. Belgium had to absorb immediate criticism for that moment, despite earlier strong phases of play.
Merino Repeats Late Heroics
Mikel Merino’s impact was framed by commentators as part of a growing pattern of late interventions by the midfielder. Observers recalled Merino’s reputation as a decisive substitute in recent years, and his timing here added another high-profile late winner to his international résumé. The goal confirmed his status as a go-to match changer for Spain in tight knockout games. Coaches and teammates praised his composure and positioning in the box at the most decisive moment.
Spain to Face France on July 14
With the win, Spain will meet France in the semi-final scheduled for July 14, a fixture widely anticipated as one of the tournament’s marquee encounters. Both sides arrive with momentum, and the matchup has been described by several outlets as a preview of a potential final for football purists. France will be closely studied for personnel and tactical adjustments, while Spain must prepare to counter a side noted for pace and attacking variety. The date now looms as a tactical litmus test for both coaches.
Press and Public Reactions Across Europe
Coverage across Spanish media framed the victory as a mixture of luck and late brilliance, with national outlets highlighting Merino’s decisive contribution. International newspapers echoed similar themes, noting the narrow margin and the pivotal goalkeeper moment as central to the narrative. French and Belgian press focused heavily on the impact of Courtois’ injury and the subsequent error, calling it an unfortunate twist that shaped the quarter-final’s outcome. Pundits in the UK, Italy and the United States emphasized the drama of the finish and what it means for the remaining contenders.
Belgium’s Campaign Ends After Resilient Effort
Belgium leave the tournament with a performance that included strong spells and a goal that kept them competitive for long stretches. Charles De Ketelaere’s earlier contribution gave Belgium hope and underlined their ability to threaten Spain on the counter. However, defensive lapses and the late goalkeeper error ultimately undid a campaign that had delivered impressive results to reach the last eight. Belgium’s squad, coaching staff and fans will now reflect on missed opportunities and the fine margins that decide knockout football.
Spain’s progression underlines both the volatility of single-elimination matches and the value of composed finishing in pressure moments. As attention now turns to the semi-final against France, Spain must balance the confidence gained from a last-minute victory with a clear plan to avoid relying on fortune to advance further. The July 14 meeting promises to be a measured test of tactics, personnel depth and nerves for two nations chasing World Cup glory.
