Spain Beat Belgium in Dramatic Quarter-Final
Spain reached the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 win over Belgium, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring a late winner in the 88th minute. The result ended Belgium’s campaign and set up a major semi-final clash between Spain and France in Dallas on Tuesday.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain in the first half after Dani Olmo’s shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Ruiz reacted quickly to the rebound and gave Spain a deserved lead after a dominant spell of possession.
Belgium responded before half-time through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home after a well-placed cross from Timothy Castagne. The equaliser came against the run of play and became the first goal Spain had conceded in the tournament.
Belgium Suffer Injury Blow Before Kick-Off
Belgium entered the match with Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku back in the starting lineup, but they suffered a major setback before kick-off when captain Youri Tielemans picked up a hamstring injury during warm-ups. The injury forced Belgium to reshape their midfield against one of the strongest possession-based teams in the tournament.
Spain controlled large parts of the game through Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, while Lamine Yamal continued to create problems with his pace and movement. Belgium, however, stayed in the contest and showed the same fighting spirit that helped them progress in the earlier knockout rounds.
The second half became more open as both teams pushed for a winner. Belgium introduced Romelu Lukaku from the bench, while Spain continued to attack through Yamal, Olmo and Oyarzabal.
Merino Punishes Goalkeeping Error
Belgium’s hopes suffered another blow when Courtois was forced off with an injury after 70 minutes. He was replaced by Senne Lammens, who was making his World Cup debut in a high-pressure quarter-final.
The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when Pau Cubarsi struck a low shot from distance. Lammens failed to hold the ball, allowing Merino to react first and fire the rebound into the net.
Belgium had one late chance to level the match, but Alexis Saelemaekers could not find Lukaku in front of goal after rounding Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations from Spain, while Belgium’s players were left stunned.
Spain will now face France in a blockbuster semi-final, with a place in the FIFA World Cup final at stake.
