In a tense quarter-final at Los Angeles Stadium, Spain secured a dramatic 2–1 victory over Belgium, setting up a highly anticipated semi-final clash with France. It was a night of heartbreak and heroics, defined by tactical battles, a major injury, and another late-game miracle from Spain’s “super-sub,” Mikel Merino.
The Breakthrough
Spain started on the front foot, controlling possession and probing the Belgian defense. The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when a surging run by Pedro Porro saw his delivery find Dani Olmo. Though Olmo’s effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois, Fabián Ruiz was perfectly positioned to hammer the rebound into the net, giving La Roja a deserved lead.
Belgium’s Response and Courtois Injury
Belgium refused to bow, drawing level just before the break in the 41st minute. Timothy Castagne delivered a pinpoint cross that Charles De Ketelaere headed expertly past Unai Simón, becoming the first player to breach Spain’s defense in the 2026 tournament.
The atmosphere shifted in the 71st minute as Belgian legend Thibaut Courtois went down with a painful thigh injury. The veteran goalkeeper left the pitch in tears, forcing a substitution for backup Senne Lammens, who was thrust into the heat of a World Cup quarter-final.
The Merino Miracle
As the match edged toward extra time, Spain applied relentless pressure. In the 88th minute, that persistence paid off. After a long-range effort from Pau Cubarsí was parried by Lammens, Mikel Merino,who had only entered the pitch minutes earlier, pounced on the rebound to slot home the winner.
The goal sent the Spanish supporters into raptures and effectively ended Belgium’s spirited campaign. Spain now advances to face France on July 14, continuing their pursuit of a second World Cup title.
