Mikel Merino's goal lifts Spain past Belgium in World Cup quarters

Mikel Merino scored in the 88th minute as Spain beat Belgium 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals on July 11. At SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Spain took the lead on the half-hour when Fabian Ruiz converted a rebound after poor handling by Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Charles De Ketelaere equalized for Belgium shortly after, ending Spain’s six-game clean sheet run in the 41st minute. Belgium had chances through Jérémy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne’s buildup, and Spain saw late one-on-one moments involving Lamine Yamal. A key turning point arrived in the 72nd minute when Courtois left injured, replaced by Senne Lammens, who spilled the ball for Merino’s finish. Merino had also scored as a substitute against Portugal four days earlier. Spain next plays France in Dallas on Tuesday; other quarterfinals are set for Norway vs England in Miami and Argentina vs Switzerland in Kansas City.