Spain edges Belgium with late goal to reach World Cup semifinals against France

Football's dramatic flair was on full display as Spain edged past Belgium 2-1 in a tense 2026 World Cup quarterfinal. The decisive moment came in the 88th minute, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring the winning goal just three minutes after entering the match. This victory propels Spain into the semifinals, marking their first appearance in the final four since their 2010 World Cup triumph, and reigniting hopes of adding another star to their "Invincible Armada" legacy.

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I am incredibly happy to be able to contribute to the team again, just like in the previous match against Portugal. The moment the ball came towards the goal, all I could think about was putting it in. But our football doesn't end here. Preparation for the semifinals starts right now.

The match, held at SoFi Stadium in California, was a tactical battle between Spain's intricate passing game and Belgium's sharp counterattacks. Spain took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz, who capitalized on a rebound after a save by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. However, Belgium, featuring stars like Kevin De Bruyne, equalized in the 41st minute with a header from Charles De Ketelaere, ending Spain's six-game clean sheet streak in the tournament.

The turning point arrived in the second half when Belgium suffered a significant blow. Courtois, their veteran goalkeeper, had to be substituted in the 70th minute due to a thigh injury, leaving the field in tears. His absence was keenly felt when, in the 88th minute, backup goalkeeper Senne Lammen made a critical error, failing to collect a cross. Merino seized the opportunity, scoring the dramatic winner and proving his worth as a super-sub.

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It was painful that (Thibaut) Courtois went off, but that's also part of football. We gave our all in every moment and played without regret. The result is disappointing, but I believe the young players will grow more through this tournament.

Spain's victory sets up a highly anticipated semifinal clash against France. This encounter evokes memories of their 2006 World Cup meeting, where France eliminated Spain. However, Spain has had recent success against France, winning in the Euro 2024 semifinals and the 2025 Nations League semifinals. The match also features a compelling duel between Spain's emerging talent Lamine Yamal and France's superstar Kylian Mbappé. Yamal expressed confidence, stating, "If France has someone to fear, it's us."

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If France has someone to fear, it's us. We have eliminated them before. We have beaten them twice. Both teams are the best in the World Cup. We will see what happens, but I have no fear at all.