Magic Merino strikes again as Spain down Belgium to reach World Cup semis

Mikel Merino continued his super-sub heroics, snatching a late winner for Spain in their 2-1 victory over Belgium, propelling them into the World Cup semi-finals. The decisive moment came when Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsi’s low strike, allowing Merino to pounce and score.

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There are no such things as coincidences. If you go into a match well-prepared, things tend to happen again.

Spain, who last reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2010 when they went on to win the tournament, will now face France. "We are two matches away from winning the World Cup and that is what we are going after," Merino stated after the match. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the challenge, saying, "They’ll be just as worried as we are."

Spain dominated early, with Fabian Ruiz opening the scoring on the half-hour mark. Belgium responded before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere's header, marking the first goal conceded by Spain in the tournament. However, Spain's aggressive approach, particularly from 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, paid off in the second half.

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We are ⁠two matches away from winning the World Cup and that is what we are going after.

Belgium's campaign was plagued by injuries, with captain Youri Tielemans and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois unavailable. Despite a spirited effort, they were unable to find a second equalizer after Merino's late strike. The win sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash between two European giants.

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We’re going to work hard to try and beat France. They’ll be just as worried as we are.