Merino's Late Goal Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinals, Ending Belgium's Golden Era

Spain secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals by defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarterfinal match held on July 10, 2026, in Inglewood, California. Mikel Merino emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive late goal in the 88th minute. This victory ended the aspirations of Belgium's "golden generation" and propelled Spain into a highly anticipated semifinal clash against France.

The match saw Spain take the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, only for Charles De Ketelaere to equalize for Belgium just before halftime in the 41st minute, marking the first goal Spain had conceded in the tournament. A pivotal moment occurred when Belgium's starting goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, was forced off due to injury in the 71st minute, replaced by Senne Lammens. Merino capitalized on a rebound from Lammens' save to net Spain's winning goal, marking his second critical late goal as a substitute in the knockout stage.