Substitute Mikel Merino secured a late victory for Spain, defeating Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles. This win marks Spain’s first FIFA World Cup semifinal appearance since 2010, setting up a clash with France in Dallas next Tuesday.
In the 30th minute, Fabian Ruiz scored for Spain after Thibaut Courtois saved Dani Olmo’s shot, following a cross from Pedro Porro. Belgium equalized in the 41st minute when Charles De Ketelaere headed in a cross from Timothy Castagne, breaking Spain’s streak of six clean sheets at the World Cup.
In the 88th minute, Merino scored the winning goal just two minutes after entering the game as a substitute. His goal came after Belgium’s goalkeeper failed to hold Pau Cubarsi’s shot, allowing Merino to capitalize on the rebound. Spain’s victory sees them reach the World Cup semifinals for the first time since their 2010 triumph in South Africa.
