Spain Edge Belgium 2-1 to Book World Cup Semi-Final Against France
Spain reached the 2026 World Cup semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a tightly contested quarter-final match in Los Angeles, sealed by Mikel Merino's late goal.
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Spain advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 victory over Belgium, secured by a dramatic 88th-minute goal from substitute Mikel Merino. The win came in a hard-fought quarter-final clash played in Los Angeles, where Spain’s persistent pressure finally broke Belgian resistance late in the second half, according to This Day.
Spain dominated possession throughout the match but struggled to convert chances until Merino’s decisive intervention. His arrival off the bench proved pivotal, as he capitalized on a defensive lapse to deliver the winning strike. The Whistler reported that Merino once again demonstrated his reputation as a last-gasp specialist, underlining his impact in crucial moments.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final showdown against France, renewing one of European football’s most storied continental rivalries on the global stage. Belgium, despite a resilient performance, exits the tournament after a narrow defeat in the closing stages. Spain’s ability to maintain composure under pressure was credited for their progression, with This Day highlighting the tactical shift following Merino’s introduction.
France and Spain will meet in the semi-finals, with the match scheduled to determine which nation advances to the final of the 2026 World Cup.