Merino's Late Strike Sends Spain Past Belgium 2-1 into World Cup Semifinals
A dramatic victory in Los Angeles secured Spain's spot in the final four, setting up a highly anticipated semifinal clash with France.
The story
Spain triumphed over Belgium with a thrilling 2-1 victory in their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match at Los Angeles Stadium on Friday. The game saw Spain take the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, who capitalized on a rebound after Dani Olmo's shot was initially saved.
Belgium quickly responded, with Charles De Ketelaere heading in an equalizer in the 41st minute following an intuitive pass from Kevin De Bruyne. The match remained finely poised until the 88th minute when substitute Mikel Merino, who had also scored a late winner against Portugal, pounced on a spilled shot from Belgium's replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens to slot home the decisive goal. The late heroics from Merino ensured Spain's progression, marking their first goal conceded in the tournament and booking their place in the semifinals.
Yesterday's results
Spain vs Belgium
Score: 2-1
Key: Mikel Merino scored an 88th-minute winner after Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere exchanged goals.
Where it stands
Following the latest quarterfinal action, Spain has advanced to the semifinals, where they will face France. These two European powerhouses are now confirmed to meet at Dallas Stadium on July 14.
The remaining two quarterfinal spots will be decided today, July 11, with Norway taking on England and Argentina battling Switzerland. The winners of these matches will complete the semifinal lineup, further shaping the knockout bracket as the tournament heads towards its climax.
Off the pitch
| Player | From | To | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eric Preston, Brett Phan, Mason Vanney, Jose "Pepe" Magaña, Sebastian Conlon | Ventura County FC (MLS NEXT Pro affiliate) | LA Galaxy | Short-Term Agreements |
| Ona Batlle | Barcelona | Arsenal Women | Free transfer |
What we'll be watching
- Norway vs England (Quarterfinal) - Saturday, July 11, 5:00 PM ET at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
- Argentina vs Switzerland (Quarterfinal) - Saturday, July 11, 9:00 PM ET at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
- France vs Spain (Semifinal) - Tuesday, July 14, 3:00 PM ET at AT&T Stadium, Dallas
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