Merino Strikes Late Again as Spain Ends Belgium’s World Cup Hopes

Mikel Merino has cemented his role as Spain’s definitive late-game specialist, pouncing on an 88th-minute goalkeeping error to secure a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles. The result, confirmed by tournament officials, propels the European champions into a semi-final showdown with France in Dallas, while likely marking the end of the international road for several pillars of Belgium’s veteran core.

For the second consecutive knockout match, Merino provided the decisive blow from the bench. Having scored the winner in stoppage time against Portugal in the round of 16, the Arsenal midfielder reacted quickest when substitute Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a long-range strike from Pau Cubarsi.

The late drama followed a match defined by Belgian resilience and a significant injury to Thibaut Courtois. The Real Madrid goalkeeper, who had kept Belgium in the contest with saves from Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal, was forced off in tears in the 71st minute. His departure proved catastrophic for Rudi Garcia’s side, as Lammens, thrust into the high-pressure quarter-final environment, failed to secure the ball that led to Merino’s winner.

Official match statistics show Spain had initially taken the lead on the half-hour mark through Fabian Ruiz. The move originated from the right flank, where Lamine Yamal found Pedro Porro, whose cross eventually fell to Ruiz after Dani Olmo’s initial attempt was parried by Courtois.

Belgium responded before the interval. Charles De Ketelaere, continuing a breakout tournament following his brace against the United States, met a Timothy Castagne cross with a powerful header to level the scores in the 41st minute. The goal was the first Spain had conceded in the tournament, ending a defensive streak that had underpinned their status as favorites.

Spain’s progression maintains their pursuit of a second world title, following their 2010 triumph in South Africa. They currently sit near the top of the FIFA World Ranking, reflecting a period of sustained dominance in European football.

The defeat signals a somber transition for Belgium. With Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku unable to find a late equalizer, the squad faces the reality of a tournament exit that likely concludes the World Cup careers of its most decorated veterans. Belgium had entered the match hampered by the loss of Youri Tielemans, who was sidelined by an injury during the pre-match warm-up.

Spain now turns to a blockbuster encounter in Dallas against France, a repeat of recent high-stakes European fixtures.