Merino Late Winner Fires Spain into FIFA World Cup Semi-Finals

Spain secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium to book their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal late in the match.

Spain made the brighter start and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz found the back of the net. Belgium responded well before the interval, as Charles De Ketelaere scored in the 41st minute to level the score at 1-1 and set up an exciting second half.

Both teams pushed for a winner after the break, creating chances at either end. As the match appeared to be heading towards extra time, Merino produced the decisive moment in the 88th minute. His late strike restored Spain's lead and proved enough to send La Roja through to the final four.

Belgium searched for another equalizer during the closing minutes but could not break down Spain's defence. As a result, Spain won the match 2-1, with Mikel Merino once again remaining their star performer.

The victory sent Spain into the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, where they will continue their pursuit of the prestigious trophy after beating a determined Belgian side that looked solid in large part of the game until Lammens made an unforgivable error.