Spain leave it late to book semifinal date with France

Mikel Merino emerged as the late hero for Spain once again, scoring in the 88th minute to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium and book their place in the World Cup semi-finals. The winning goal came from a rebound after backup Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled the ball.

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Mikel Merino scored in the 88th minute from a rebound yielded by backup Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens, and Spain advanced to the World Cup semifinals with a 2-1 victory.

Spain's victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against tournament favorites France on Tuesday in Dallas. Merino, who also scored a late winner in the previous match against Portugal, came on as a substitute in the 86th minute and scored with his second touch.

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Merino was the late hero for the second straight match for Spain, who advanced to face tournament favourite France in the semifinals on Tuesday in Dallas.

The match saw Belgium break Spain's impressive defensive record. Charles De Ketelaere scored in the 41st minute, marking the first goal Spain had conceded throughout the entire tournament, ending a streak of 649 minutes without being scored upon. This goal came after Spain had taken the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz.

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His header from Timothy Castagne’s cross from the right ended a record streak of 649 minutes without conceding at the World Cup.