​Spain progressed to the World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 win over Belgium in Los Angeles, clinched by substitute Mikel Merino’s 88th-minute strike that set up an all-European showdown with France. Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain started brightly and deservedly took the lead when Fabián Ruiz found the net, giving La Roja the early advantage they had been craving.
Belgium, already missing captain Youri Tielemans due to an injury sustained in the warm-up, rallied before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, and the teams entered halftime tied after a highly entertaining first 45 minutes. The second half saw Spain dominate possession and create the clearer opportunities, but Thibaut Courtois produced a string of sharp saves until an injury forced him off the field, keeping the Belgium hopes alive.
Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal went close on multiple occasions, yet the reigning European champions could not convert until Merino, entering the fray from the bench, made the decisive impact. The Arsenal midfielder, increasingly known for his late-game heroics at this tournament, pounced on a rebound when replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a Pau Cubarsí effort from close range, delivering the moment of weakness Belgium could ill afford.
Spain’s dominance over the 90 minutes was evident in the statistics, as they produced more than twice Belgium’s expected goals, a reflection of their control and intent throughout the match. Yet the game remained finely balanced, with Belgium showing moments of resilience for much of the contest. For Belgium’s golden generation, the campaign ends here, while for Spain, a second world title now seems within reach.
In terms of performance metrics, Merino’s decisive contribution arrived after an intelligent front-foot sequence, with his late intervention tipping the balance in favor of La Roja. The match highlighted Spain’s sustained pressure and ability to unlock stubborn defenses, even when the result was in doubt. The numbers from Sofascore illustrate a well-rounded performance across the pitch, with Spain registering consistent pressing, passing accuracy, and opportunistic finishing when opportunities arose.
Spain’s forward line and midfield engine demonstrated a blend of creativity and efficiency, crafting chances that kept Belgium under sustained pressure. The persistence finally paid off late, as Merino’s moment of opportunism sealed a memorable victory and reinforced Spain’s status as a team capable of contending for the trophy.
Overall, the match was a compelling display of tournament-tested resilience and technical quality, underscoring Spain’s progress under de la Fuente and their readiness to challenge Europe’s elite for the sport’s ultimate prize.