​Substitute Mikel Merino popped up once again to steer European champions Spain into a World Cup semi-final against favorites France after a 2-1 victory over an injury-hit Belgium on Friday. Fabián Ruiz had given Spain the lead as early as the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere responded for Belgium, meaning Unai Simón conceded for the first time in a record 649 World Cup minutes across two tournaments. Merino, just as he did in the last-16 victory over Portugal, came off the bench and converted decisively in the 88th minute following a mistake by Belgium’s reserve goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
The upcoming showdown with France, set near Dallas on Tuesday, will be a rematch of the Euro 2024 semi-final won by La Roja. Spain’s only World Cup title came in 2010, and France, the 1998 and 2018 champions who were runners-up to Argentina four years ago, know they face their toughest test yet after Spain dominated a Belgium side depleted by injuries in Los Angeles County.
Belgium were dealt a blow when captain Youri Tielemans pulled out during the warm-up with what appeared to be a hamstring issue, compounding the absence of Amadou Onana due to a knee ligament tear. An injury to Thibaut Courtois, who left the field in tears around the 71st minute, forced Manchester United’s Senne Lammens into Belgium’s goal. Spain capitalized on those late changes after introducing Nico Williams and Merino, with Lammens spilling a long-range effort from Pau Cubarsi. Merino pounced to bury the loose ball into the roof of the net, sealing a dramatic win for La Roja.
The match demonstrated Spain’s continued sophistication under pressure, highlighting the effectiveness of their late-game substitutions and tactical adjustments. Merino’s decisive strike underscored his value as a proven impact substitute, a player who repeatedly delivers when called upon in the biggest moments. The visitors’ resilience was evident as they overcame a resilient Belgian outfit that had hoped to disrupt Spain’s rhythm but ultimately found themselves unable to contain the improved efficiency and tempo that Spain displayed in the closing stages.
As the two nations prepare for a marquee Euro-style clash in the World Cup semi-finals, attention will turn to Spain’s balance between youth and experience, and France’s determination to reclaim the tournament crown. Spain’s route to this juncture has reinforced their status as a serious title contender, with a growing sense that their blend of technical excellence, strategic discipline, and depth off the bench can propel them toward a breakthrough on the world stage.