Spain secured a spot in the World Cup semifinals by defeating Belgium 2-1, with Mikel Merino scoring a dramatic late goal. This victory sets up a highly anticipated clash with France.

Late Heroics from Merino

Merino, who had been on the pitch for just six minutes, netted his second last-minute winner in consecutive matches. He took advantage of a mistake by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who had come on for the injured Thibaut Courtois. Lammens failed to handle a routine shot from Pau Cubarsí, allowing Merino to tap in from close range.

First-Half Goals

The match featured an exchange of goals in the first half, with Fabián Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere each finding the net. However, it was Merino's late strike that ultimately decided the contest and propelled Spain into the next round.

Spain's victory means they will face France in the semifinals, a matchup that promises to be thrilling as both teams have shown exceptional form throughout the tournament. Fans eagerly await the outcome of the remaining quarterfinals, with England set to play Norway and Argentina taking on Switzerland in the coming days.