Spain strike late to book WC semifinal with France...
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Spain booked a World Cup semifinal against France in the most dramatic fashion, relying on another late Mikel Merino goal to eliminate Belgium. The midfielder’s decisive strike arrived in the 88th minute, continuing an extraordinary knockout-stage trend and sending Spain through despite a tense finish that seemed destined for extra time.
Merino Delivers Again for Spain
Merino has now scored Spain into the semifinal twice in a row, producing two knockout goals as a substitute. His latest contribution was particularly remarkable: he entered the match in the 86th minute and scored with his second touch just two minutes later.
The timing transformed a cagey contest. Belgium had defended with discipline and appeared ready to force extra time, but Merino found the breakthrough when Spain needed it most. His ability to influence matches immediately has made him one of the defining figures of Spain’s World Cup run, even without starting either of those decisive knockout games.
The goal also underlined Spain’s depth. While much of the attention has focused on the team’s possession, defensive structure and attacking talent, Merino has become the unlikely late-match hero. His repeated impact from the bench gives Spain another weapon as they prepare for a semifinal against France.
Lammens Error Ends Belgium’s Run
Belgium’s hopes were further complicated by a goalkeeping change in the second half. Senne Lammens, brought on in the 71st minute as the team’s backup goalkeeper, spilled the decisive effort that allowed Spain to claim victory.
The mistake will be a painful final memory of a Belgium campaign that had promised so much. The loss brings an end to a golden generation’s World Cup challenge, with small margins once again deciding a major knockout match. Belgium defended bravely for long stretches, but the late error proved impossible to overcome.
Spain’s result also extended a 649-minute clean-sheet streak, an astonishing defensive record that somehow became a secondary storyline. The team’s resilience at the back has been central to its progress, yet Merino’s late intervention and Belgium’s goalkeeping misfortune dominated the night.
France Await in the Semifinal
Spain now face France with momentum, defensive confidence and a growing belief in their ability to win tight matches. France will present a major test, but Spain’s late goal threat could prove crucial. After surviving another dramatic knockout encounter, Spain are one victory away from the World Cup final.