New Delhi, July 11: In a thrilling quarter-final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Spain showcased an impressive performance, defeating Belgium 2-1 to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The hero of Spain’s victory was Mikel Merino, who scored the decisive goal as a substitute in the 88th minute.
With this goal, Merino etched his name in World Cup history. Previously, he had also scored a winning goal as a substitute in the Round of 16 match against Portugal. He repeated this remarkable feat against Belgium, becoming the first player in World Cup history to score in two knockout matches as a substitute. Additionally, he is the first player to score winning goals for Spain in two separate matches after the 80th minute in a World Cup.
So far in this tournament, Spain has played six matches, with Merino starting only one. He has come off the bench in five games, playing a crucial role in the team’s success. Spain displayed aggressive play from the start against Belgium. In the 30th minute, Fabian Ruiz scored the first goal for Spain. Following a brilliant run by Lamine Yamal, Pedro Porro delivered a low cross into the box, but Belgium’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois failed to stop Dani Olmo’s shot. Ruiz capitalized on the rebound, striking the ball into the net.
Belgium equalized before halftime, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring in the 42nd minute. He headed the ball into the net following a powerful cross from Timothy Castagne. The score remained tied at 1-1 until the 86th minute when Spain’s coach brought Merino onto the field. Just two minutes later, he scored, securing Spain’s place in the semi-finals. Spain will face France on Tuesday in the next round.
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