Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after substitute, Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner in a 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium, setting up a last-four clash against France.
Merino struck in the 87th minute to finally break Belgium’s resistance after an absorbing contest that looked destined for extra time. His decisive finish ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side maintained their title charge and secured a semi-final showdown in Texas on Tuesday.
Spain had taken the lead in the 29th minute when Fabián Ruiz finished from close range after sustained pressure from La Roja, giving the five-time tournament scorers a deserved advantage.
However, Belgium responded before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home in the 41st minute to end Spain’s remarkable 609-minute shutout streak at the tournament. The goal was De Ketelaere’s third of the competition after his brace in Belgium’s previous-round victory over the United States.
Belgium’s preparations were disrupted before kick-off after captain and midfield key-player, Youri Tielemans suffered an injury during the warm-up, forcing a late change to Domenico Tedesco’s lineup.
The Red Devils were dealt another setback in the second half when goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured in the 71st minute, with backup Senne Lammens replacing him between the posts.
Despite enjoying only 32 percent possession, Belgium defended resolutely and frustrated Spain for much of the second half as extra time loomed.
But Spain’s relentless pressure eventually paid off three minutes from stoppage time when Merino, introduced from the bench, seized on a late opening and fired beyond Lammens to seal a dramatic victory.
The win sends Spain into the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face France in one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters, while Belgium’s campaign ends after a spirited quarter-final performance.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
