Spain Stun Belgium 2-1 to Reach World Cup Semifinals

The 2010 world champions extended their unbeaten run to a national-record 36 matches, thanks to Mikel Merino's dramatic late winner against Belgium in the World Cup quarterfinals.

Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, once again, proved decisive with a crucial goal in the 88th minute. The Arsenal midfielder seized on a spilled attempt by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium.

Spain had taken the lead through Fabián Ruiz, who capped a dominant spell with a composed finish. But Belgium fought back, drawing level when Charles De Ketelaere rose highest to power home a header, taking the game into a nail-biting conclusion.

Merino's intervention in the 88th minute sealed the win for Spain, setting them up for a semi-final showdown with France in Dallas on July 14. French side defeated Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals behind goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.

France's victory marked a promising start to the European semifinalists' showdown in Dallas, with Spain remaining one game away from equalling Italy's all-time international unbeaten record.

A thrilling match saw both teams showcase remarkable skill and determination, reflecting the exceptional talent on show at the World Cup. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the Spanish and French teams' semifinal showdown, set to take place on Friday, July 14.

Spanish midfielder Merino has developed a reputation for scoring crucial goals on the biggest stage. He has previously netted extra-time and stoppage-time winners against Germany at UEFA Euro 2024 and Portugal in the Round of 16 of this tournament.

Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón set a new World Cup record by not conceding in 649 consecutive minutes. The previous mark of 518 minutes was held by Italy's Walter Zenga since the 1990 World Cup.

A semi-final clash against France promises to be one of the tournament's biggest spectacles, with two of Europe's in-form sides battling for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Spain's Path to the Semifinals

A remarkable Spanish run saw them book their ticket to the semifinals with a thrilling quarterfinals win. Mikel Merino's crucial goal secured a 2-1 victory, capping a strong campaign that has seen Spain maintain an unbeaten run.

Key Facts

  • Spain's unbeaten run now stands at 36 matches, a new national record.
  • Mikel Merino has developed a reputation for scoring crucial goals on the biggest stage.
  • Spain is one game away from equalling Italy's all-time international unbeaten record.
  • Unai Simón set a new World Cup record by not conceding in 649 consecutive minutes.
  • The semi-final showdown against France will take place on July 14.