Spain booked its place in the 2026 World Cup semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, as substitute Mikel Merino scored the winner in the 88th minute.
It was Merino’s second consecutive game-winning goal off the bench, after his heroics against Portugal in the Round of 16. The victory sets up a mouthwatering semifinal clash with France on Tuesday, July 14 in Dallas.
How the Match Unfolded
Spain opened the scoring in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz pounced on a rebound that Belgian legend Thibaut Courtois couldn’t control. Spain dominated possession throughout the first half, holding 68% of the ball and firing nine attempts on goal before the break.
Belgium equalized just before halftime through a well-worked counterattack, silencing the pro-Spain crowd at SoFi Stadium and setting up a tense second half.
The turning point came in the 73rd minute when Courtois went down with a muscular injury and was replaced by backup Senne Lammens. The Real Madrid goalkeeper had made five saves to keep Belgium in the game.
Merino Does It Again
With the score tied at 1-1 and extra time looming, Spain pushed forward relentlessly. In the 88th minute, Pau Cubarsí’s shot was saved by Lammens, but the young Belgian goalkeeper couldn’t control the rebound. Mikel Merino read the play perfectly, sprinted onto the loose ball, and fired it home for the winner.
“I trust myself and I know what to do whenever I have the chance,” Merino said after the match. “We’re not finished yet.”
Semifinal: Spain vs. France
Spain now advances to face France in the semifinals on Tuesday, July 14 in Dallas. France has been arguably the most dominant team in the tournament, cruising past Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente: “The game will be very demanding. We’ll need the best version of ourselves. But let me be clear — we are here for more.”
Upcoming Quarterfinal Matches
The tournament continues on Saturday, July 11 with a doubleheader:
- Norway vs. England — Miami Stadium
- Argentina vs. Switzerland — Kansas City Stadium
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for Spain against Belgium?
Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute, and substitute Mikel Merino netted the winner in the 88th minute.
Why did Thibaut Courtois leave the match?
Courtois suffered a muscular injury in the 73rd minute and was substituted for Senne Lammens.
When is the Spain vs. France semifinal?
The semifinal will be played on Tuesday, July 14 in Dallas, Texas.
Where is the 2026 World Cup final?
The final will be played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.