Spain advanced to the 2026 World Cup semifinals after a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarterfinals, securing a matchup against France on July 14. Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 43rd minute of the second half, following earlier goals from Fabian Ruiz (30′) and Charles De Ketelaere (41′).
Mikel Merino’s Late Winner Secures Semifinal Spot
Spain reached their first World Cup semifinal since 2010, the year they won their sole title in South Africa. The deciding moment came late in the second half when Mikel Merino capitalized on a short rebound from Belgian substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Lammens had entered the match minutes earlier after starter Thibaut Courtois was forced off due to a muscle injury.
The victory validates a tactical shift by De la Fuente, who opted to start Fabian Ruiz over the heavily criticized Pedri. Ruiz provided the opening goal in the 30th minute, finishing a sequence that began with Pedro Porro and Lamine Yamal, and included a deflected shot by Dani Olmo.
Tactical Breakdown: How Spain Broke the Belgian Defense
The match began as a tactical stalemate, with both teams spending the early stages in a cautious study phase. According to match reports, the game only opened up after the cooling break. Spain controlled the tempo through Rodri in midfield and the creative play of Dani Olmo.
Belgium, managed by Rudy Garcia, relied on the speed of Jeremy Doku to launch counterattacks. They managed to equalize in the 41st minute when Charles De Ketelaere scored a header from a Castagne cross, beating defender Cubarsi’ to level the score at 1-1.
Key Substitutions and Impact
Both managers adjusted their lineups to break the deadlock in the second half:
- Spain: De la Fuente introduced Pedri, Ferran Torres, Nico Williams, and Mikel Merino.
- Belgium: Garcia brought on Lukaku, Witsel, and Seys.
The momentum shifted decisively when Thibaut Courtois left the pitch in tears at the 25-minute mark of the second half. The entry of Lammers coincided with increased Spanish pressure, culminating in the 43rd-minute winner by Merino after a long-range effort from Cubarsi’ was parried by the goalkeeper.
Comparison: Spain’s Path vs. Belgium’s Struggle
| Feature | Spain | Belgium |
|---|---|---|
| Key Performer | Mikel Merino (Winning Goal) | Charles De Ketelaere (Equalizer) |
| Critical Event | Strategic substitutions | Courtois injury/exit |
| Outcome | Advances to face France | Eliminated |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will Spain play in the semifinals?
Spain will face France on July 14.
How did Mikel Merino score the winning goal?
Merino scored in the 43rd minute of the second half after goalkeeper Senne Lammens produced a short rebound from a shot by Cubarsi’.
Why did Thibaut Courtois leave the match?
Courtois was forced to exit the game in the 25th minute of the second half due to a muscle injury.
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