Mikel Merino once again came to Spain’s rescue, making late heroics a habit for La Roja with a dramatic winner that sealed a 2-1 victory over Belgium in their World Cup quarter-final in Los Angeles.
The Arsenal midfielder proved to be Spain’s knockout-stage saviour, scoring an 88th-minute winner to break Belgian hearts and set up a mouthwatering semi-final clash against France in Dallas on July 14.
Merino reacted quickest after substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsí’s long-range effort, beating the Belgian defence to the rebound before firing home from close range to send La Roja into the final four.
The goal marked Merino’s second consecutive match-winning strike for Spain after his late heroics against Portugal in the Round of 16, cementing his reputation as Spain’s super-sub during their World Cup campaign.
Spain had taken control of the contest early and deservedly opened the scoring in the 30th minute through Fabián Ruiz, who converted a rebound after Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois failed to hold the initial effort.
Belgium, however, refused to collapse and responded strongly before half-time. Charles De Ketelaere brought the Red Devils back into the game with a well-taken header, ending Spain’s impressive defensive record after five consecutive clean sheets at the tournament.
The match turned further in Spain’s favour when Courtois was forced off with an injury in the second half, with Lammens coming on as his replacement.
Despite Belgium’s resistance, Spain continued to dominate proceedings, creating several opportunities and eventually finding the breakthrough through Merino after relentless pressure.
Belgium pushed forward in search of another equaliser during seven minutes of stoppage time, with Romelu Lukaku coming close to creating a final chance, but Spain held firm to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Kevin De Bruyne, who battled through the closing stages with cramp, was substituted shortly before Merino’s decisive strike as Belgium’s hopes of reaching the last four faded away.
Spain now head into their semi-final showdown with France carrying their unbeaten record and hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010.
For Belgium, another promising tournament campaign ends in disappointment after falling short once again on the biggest stage.
