Substitute Belgian keeper's fumble sends Spain to the semifinals

Substitute Mikel Merino once again proved to be Spain's match-winner, scoring a late goal to secure a 2-1 victory over Belgium and send the team to the World Cup semifinals. This mirrors his decisive contribution in the previous knockout round against Portugal.

Merino entered the match and, within two minutes, found the back of the net. The goal came from a rebound after Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois, failed to control a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsí. Lammens appeared visibly unfortunate on the play.

Before the late drama, the match had been tightly contested. Spain had largely controlled the game, but Belgium remained competitive. Spain took the lead through Fabián Ruiz in the first half, following up on a save by Courtois. However, Belgium equalized via a header from Charles De Ketelaere, marking the first time Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón conceded a goal in the tournament.

Spain's defense, a strong point throughout the tournament, was breached for the first time. Despite Spain's dominance in the second half, chances were scarce against an improved Belgian defense. The injury to Courtois and the subsequent error by his replacement proved to be the turning point, propelling Spain into a semifinal clash with France.