Spain secured a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final on Friday to book a place in the semifinals. Substitute Mikel Merino scored a late winner in Inglewood, California, sending Spain into a high-profile clash against France. The result keeps Spain’s title hopes alive as they continue their impressive unbeaten run.
Merino produced another dramatic moment after returning from a serious foot injury that kept him sidelined for much of 2026. The midfielder came off the bench and scored the decisive goal in the 88th minute after Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsi’s shot. It was Merino’s second late match-winning contribution of the tournament.
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Spain had taken the lead in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz scored from a rebound after Dani Olmo’s effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Belgium responded before halftime as Charles De Ketelaere headed in an equaliser in the 41st minute. However, Spain regained control and secured victory through Merino’s late strike.
Belgium faced several setbacks during the match, with goalkeeper Courtois leaving the field due to a quad injury and captain Youri Tielemans missing the starting lineup after being injured during warm-ups. Kevin De Bruyne was also forced off, leaving Belgium coach Rudi Garcia frustrated after his team’s 18-match unbeaten streak ended.
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Spain will now face France in Tuesday’s semifinal in Arlington, Texas, with a place in the World Cup final at stake. France are seeking their third consecutive final appearance after reaching the 2018 final and losing to Argentina in 2022. Spain extended their unbeaten streak to a national record 36 matches and will aim to continue their historic run against France.