Mikel Merino’s remarkable moment arrived once again, as he propelled Spain into the World Cup semi-finals. The player, who previously netted crucial goals to secure Spain’s place in the European Championship and World Cup quarter-finals, struck decisively again. Substituted in at 85 minutes, Merino seized an opportunity in the 88th minute, sending Spain through to face France next week.
As he celebrated with a nod to his father, Thibaut Courtois, who might have thwarted the goal, was left to watch from the sidelines. Senne Lammers, the substitute goalkeeper, could only witness the chaos unfold as Spain erupted in joy. Their journey to Dallas was marked by significant tactical decisions that proved effective.
Luis de la Fuente’s choice to replace Pedri with Fabian Ruiz proved pivotal. The PSG midfielder created the first genuine chance just ten minutes in, setting up Rodri, and also scored the opening goal at the half-hour mark. The play unfolded with Pedro Porro and Lamine Yamal combining effectively, leading to a well-timed pass from Yamal to Porro, who assisted Dani Olmo. Olmo’s initial shot was parried away by Courtois, but Ruiz capitalized on the rebound.
In a moment of excitement, Ruiz retrieved the ball from the net, celebrated exuberantly, and had it tucked under his shirt. Spain had taken control of the match, especially after the commercial break, and were now in a commanding position. Lamine Yamal, after a shaky start, began to find his rhythm, making significant runs at the Belgian defense.
However, just as Spain seemed to be in command, disaster struck. At 40 minutes and 12 seconds into the match, Spain conceded their first goal of the tournament when Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium. The move originated with Doku, who advanced on the left, and was finished by De Ketelaere after a precise assist from Kevin De Bruyne.
The second half started brightly for Spain, with another impressive pass from Cubarsi, who had previously assisted Álex Baena. This time, he found Lamine Yamal in the area. Though Courtois managed to block the shot and the flag was raised, it showcased Spain’s potential. However, the next chance fell to Yamal, whose low shot was just off target from the edge of the box.
With a need for more incisive play, De la Fuente brought on Pedri and Ferran Torres early in the second half. But Belgium had a close call when Doku and De Bruyne combined, leading to a shot from Maxim De Cruyper that hit the side netting. In response, Belgium made tactical changes, bringing on Axel Witsel, Joaquin Seys, and Romelu Lukaku. Courtois continued to be tested, denying Oyarzabal after another good setup from Yamal.
Unfortunately for Belgium, a commercial break coincided with alarming news: Courtois went down injured, clutching his thigh. Despite his attempts to continue, he was forced off in tears, adding to Belgium’s woes after losing Youri Tielemans prior to kick-off. As De Bruyne also exited later, Spain pressed forward, now facing fewer obstacles.
With the match unfolding, the question loomed for Belgium: how long could they withstand Spain’s pressure? The answer came swiftly as Mikel Merino, just moments after entering the game, found the back of the net, securing Spain’s spot in the semi-finals.
- World Cup 2026
- Spain
- Belgium
- World Cup
- match reports
