Merino’s late heroics send Spain into first World Cup semi-final since 2010 (Photos)

Substitute Mikel Merino struck two minutes after coming off the bench as Spain edged Belgium 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup quarter-final on Friday, sending La Roja into their first World Cup semi-final since lifting the trophy in South Africa 16 years ago.

In a contest filled with attacking football, brilliant goalkeeping and late drama at Los Angeles Stadium, Spain’s persistence finally paid off when Merino capitalized on a costly mistake by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens to seal a memorable victory in the 88th minute.

Spain will now face France in an all-European semi-final after Didier Deschamps’ side defeated Morocco 2-0 earlier in the day, setting up one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters.

Luis de la Fuente’s side dominated possession from the opening whistle, dictating the tempo with their trademark passing game while Belgium looked to threaten on the counterattack through Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku.

The Spaniards were rewarded after 30 minutes when teenage sensation Lamine Yamal combined brilliantly with Pedro Porro on the right flank.

Porro’s low cross found Dani Olmo, whose initial effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois, but Fabián Ruiz reacted quickest to convert the rebound from close range and hand Spain a deserved lead.

Belgium, however, responded impressively and equalized just 11 minutes later.

Timothy Castagne delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area where Charles De Ketelaere rose above Pau Cubarsí to power a header beyond Unai Simón, scoring his fourth goal of the tournament and becoming the first player to breach Spain’s defence at the 2026 World Cup.

The second half produced an end-to-end spectacle as both sides searched for a winner.

Spain continued to create the better chances, with Yamal repeatedly troubling Belgium’s defence while Courtois produced a string of outstanding saves to keep his side level.

At the other end, De Bruyne tested Simón after a dangerous move orchestrated by Doku, while Romelu Lukaku nearly turned home a late cross before Aymeric Laporte produced a superb goal-line clearance.

Belgium suffered a significant setback in the 71st minute when Courtois was forced off with a thigh injury, handing Senne Lammens an unexpected introduction in one of the biggest matches of his career.

The decisive moment arrived just 88 minutes into the contest.

Pau Cubarsí surged forward and unleashed a low drive that Lammens could only parry into the path of Merino, who had entered the match less than two minutes earlier.

The Arsenal midfielder made no mistake, calmly slotting home from close range to spark jubilant celebrations among the Spanish supporters.

Belgium launched a frantic late assault, with Lukaku coming agonizingly close to forcing extra time, but Spain's disciplined defence stood firm through seven minutes of stoppage time.

The victory continues Spain’s resurgence under De la Fuente, whose youthful squad has blended experienced leaders such as Rodri, Dani Olmo and Laporte with emerging stars including Yamal and Cubarsí.

La Roja are now one step away from reaching their second World Cup final after their historic triumph in 2010.

Spain will now look to continue their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title when they meet France in a blockbuster semi-final, with a place in the 2026 final at stake.

Photos