Mikel Merino's goal lifts Spain past Belgium, into semifinals vs. France

Mikel Merino once again proved to be Spain's super-sub, scoring the decisive goal in the 88th minute to secure a 2-1 victory over Belgium in a tense World Cup quarter-final. The win propels Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face France on Tuesday in Arlington, Texas.

Merino, who also scored the late winner against Portugal in the round of 16, entered the match in the 86th minute. He capitalized on a spilled save by substitute Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois in the 71st minute. Lammens failed to hold onto a shot from Pau Cubarsi, and Merino was quick to pounce on the rebound.

Spain had taken the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, who scored off a rebound after Courtois had saved Dani Olmo's initial shot. However, Belgium equalized in the 41st minute with a header from Charles De Ketelaere, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from Spain. This goal ended Spain's impressive streak of not conceding in the tournament, a run that had lasted 650 minutes.

Despite dominating possession for much of the match, Spain found Belgium a tough opponent. Star player Lamine Yamal had several near misses, with shots going just wide of the post. Belgium also had their chances, with a late clearance by Aymeric Laporte preventing an equalizer in second-half stoppage time. The victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash between Spain and France, with the French aiming for a third consecutive trip to the final.

“

Mikel Merino came off the bench again to save Spain, scoring the go-ahead goal in the 88th minute to defeat Belgium 2-1 in a World Cup quarterfinal in Inglewood, Calif., on Friday (Jul 10).