Here’s the thing: The 2026 FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals just got a whole lot more intense. Spain edged out Belgium 2-1 in a nail-biting game, securing their spot in the semifinals against France. Spain’s españa vs Belgium matchup was a rollercoaster ride that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last minute. Who scored the winning goal? Merino. That’s right, Mikel Merino — the super sub who came through for Spain with a stunning 88th-minute goal.
Mikel Merino: The Game Changer
In a match that saw both sides battling tooth and nail, Spain needed a hero. Enter Mikel Merino, who stepped onto the pitch and changed the game’s trajectory. Many would argue that La Roja’s victory was inevitable once Merino set foot on the field. This was not the first time Merino has delivered a last-minute goal — it’s becoming a bit of a signature move for him, and one that keeps fans glued to their screens.
Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino got the goals as Spain edged Belgium in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, securing them a showdown with France.
Spain's last-minute win over Belgium was a masterclass in resilience and tactical brilliance . After a tense 90 minutes, with Belgium’s defense holding strong, it was Merino’s late strike that broke the deadlock.
Here’s the thing: Belgium had their chances. They were relentless in their pursuit of an equalizer, but Spain’s defense was equally determined. The pressure was palpable, and the Spain game was a testament to the unpredictable nature of soccer, where a single moment can alter the course of history.
France vs. Spain: The Semi-Final Showdown
And then — get this — Spain is now set to face France in the semifinals. This is a matchup that soccer fans have been eagerly anticipating. The France–Spain football rivalry is one of the biggest and most heated association football rivalries in Europe, between France and Spain, two of the most.
France, led by the unstoppable Kylian Mbappe, has been a force to be reckoned with. This clash of titans promises to be an electrifying encounter, reminiscent of some of the most memorable matches in the sport’s history.
Look: Spain's journey has been nothing short of spectacular. They've shown incredible grit and determination, and their ability to pull off dramatic victories has made them a fan favorite. But France will be a different challenge altogether. With Mbappé at the helm, the French team is a formidable opponent, and their hunger for victory is palpable. Expect nothing less than a fiercely contested battle.
Belgium's Departure and Spain's Victory
As for Belgium, the loss is a bitter pill to swallow. They fought valiantly, but in the end, it was Spain’s night. Belgium’s departure from the World Cup leaves a void, but the Spain national football team has already shown that it is ready to step up and fill it. Spain’s victory is a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess, qualities that have made them a formidable opponent in this tournament.
Spain’s Mikel Merino scored the go-ahead goal in the 88th minute Friday to beat Belgium and push Spain into a World Cup semifinal.
Spain's late winning goal breaks Belgian hearts to seal World Cup semifinal matchup.
Spain reaches World Cup semifinals as Mikel Merino delivers late goal.
Spain’s Spain v Belgium game was a nail-biter until the very end. The tension was palpable, and fans around the world were glued to their screens, hoping for a dramatic finish. And that’s exactly what they got.
Spain beats Belgium 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup Quarterfinals, Mikel Merino scored another late winner for Spain to knock Belgium out of the 2026 World Cup and set up a mouthwatering semi-final against France.
"Spain's win over Belgium was a display of their resilience and tactical brilliance, qualities that have made them a formidable opponent in this tournament." - Fabio Ruiz
