Spain Reach World Cup Semifinals as Mikel Merino Delivers Again Against Belgium

Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a closely contested quarterfinal. While teenage star Lamine Yamal attracted much of the pre-match attention, it was substitute Mikel Merino who once again proved decisive with a late winning goal.

The result sends Spain into a heavyweight semifinal against France, while Belgium’s campaign ends despite a determined display.

What Happened in the Quarterfinal?

Spain controlled possession for long periods and opened the scoring in the first half through Fabián Ruiz after sustained attacking pressure. Belgium responded before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere headed home the equaliser, handing Spain their first goal conceded in the tournament.

The match remained finely balanced until the closing minutes. In the 88th minute, substitute Mikel Merino reacted quickest after Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold a powerful effort, converting the rebound to secure Spain’s victory. The win marked the second consecutive knockout match in which Merino came off the bench to score the decisive goal.

Merino Overshadows Spain’s Biggest Star

Much of the discussion before kickoff centered on 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, whose performances have made him one of football’s brightest young talents.

However, this quarterfinal highlighted another strength of Spain’s squad: depth.

Merino’s contribution demonstrated that Spain are not relying solely on one superstar. Instead, they have repeatedly benefited from experienced substitutes capable of changing matches in crucial moments.

Key Performers

Mikel Merino

• Scored the winning goal for the second straight knockout game.
• Provided the decisive impact after entering as a substitute.
• Continued his reputation as one of Spain’s most reliable big-match players during this tournament.

Fabián Ruiz

• Opened the scoring.
• Controlled midfield for long stretches.
• Offered composure in possession during Belgium’s pressing spells.

Lamine Yamal

• Constantly threatened Belgium’s defence with his movement and creativity.
• Although he did not score, his attacking presence stretched Belgium throughout the match.
• FIFA named him Player of the Match, though some observers argued other Spanish players such as Rodri or Dani Olmo also had strong claims based on their overall influence.

Belgium Showed Fight but Fell Short

Belgium’s performance suggested a team capable of competing with one of the tournament favourites.

Charles De Ketelaere’s equaliser rewarded Belgium’s disciplined approach, while Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku remained dangerous on the counterattack.

A major setback came when first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left injured during the second half. Replacement Senne Lammens later spilled the shot that allowed Merino to score the winner, a moment that ultimately decided the contest.

How Credible Is This Result?

The outcome is fully confirmed through official match results from the FIFA World Cup and multiple established news organisations.

While post-match discussions continue over individual player ratings and Player of the Match selections, there is no dispute regarding the result or the key events that determined Spain’s victory.

Why This Victory Matters

Spain have now reached their first FIFA World Cup semifinal since winning the tournament in 2010.

Beyond the result itself, the match reinforced several important qualities:

• Spain can win even when opponents successfully limit some of their attacking stars.
• Their midfield continues to dictate games through patient possession.
• The squad possesses experienced substitutes capable of deciding knockout matches.

These characteristics become increasingly valuable as tournaments progress and matches grow tighter.

Who Benefits and Who Is Affected?

Spain

• Advances to the semifinals with growing confidence.
• Continues an impressive unbeaten run in competitive football.
• Gains further belief in the strength of its entire squad rather than depending on individual brilliance.

Belgium

• Exits the World Cup despite delivering one of Spain’s toughest tests.
• Faces questions about rebuilding while integrating younger players with experienced veterans.
• Misses the opportunity to return to a World Cup semifinal.

Analysis: Spain’s Biggest Strength May Not Be Its Young Stars

Analysis

Yamal understandably attracts headlines because of his age and talent. Yet Spain’s tournament success has increasingly been built on balance rather than individual moments.

Rodri provides control in midfield, Fabián Ruiz contributes goals, the defence has remained among the tournament’s strongest, and Merino has repeatedly changed matches from the bench.

That combination gives Spain multiple ways to win—a valuable trait as the level of opposition continues to rise.

What Comes Next?

Spain now prepare for a semifinal against France, one of the tournament’s strongest attacking sides.

For Spain, maintaining defensive discipline while continuing to create scoring chances from different areas of the pitch will be crucial.

Belgium, meanwhile, will shift focus toward the next international cycle, with attention likely turning to squad renewal and the development of emerging players following another World Cup exit.

Key Takeaways

Spain reached the FIFA World Cup semifinals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a tightly contested quarterfinal, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring another late knockout winner.

The match showed that Spain’s success is built not only on emerging stars like Lamine Yamal but also on experienced players capable of making decisive contributions throughout the squad.

Spain’s next challenge against France will provide a clearer measure of whether this balanced team has what it takes to compete for another World Cup title.