Mikel Merino came off the bench to score a dramatic 88th-minute winner as Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in their World Cup 2026 quarter-final. The substitute’s close-range finish sent Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face France.

How the Match Unfolded

Spain took the lead on the half-hour mark through Fabián Ruiz. The midfielder finished with a right-footed shot from the centre of the box after good build-up play from his teammates.

Belgium responded before half-time. Charles De Ketelaere rose to head home from Timothy Castagne’s cross in the 41st minute, sending the teams into the break level at 1-1.

The second half was a tense, cagey affair. Both teams created chances but neither could find a breakthrough — until Merino’s moment of magic late on.

Merino: Spain’s Super Sub

Merino has become Spain’s unlikely hero at this World Cup. Brought on as a substitute, the midfielder popped up in the 88th minute with a left-footed shot from very close range that flew into the top left corner.

It was the kind of goal that wins tournaments — a player arriving at exactly the right moment in the penalty area. Merino’s ability to make an impact off the bench has been one of the stories of Spain’s campaign.

Belgium’s Golden Generation Comes to an End

For Belgium, the defeat marks what many believe is the end of their famous golden generation. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens made a costly error during the match, and the team could not recover.

Players like Kevin De Bruyne have given Belgium some of their finest years in international football, but a World Cup trophy has always remained out of reach. This quarter-final exit may signal the closing of a remarkable chapter in Belgian football.

Lamine Yamal: Still Waiting for His Moment

One of the sub-plots of the match was Lamine Yamal’s quiet performance. The Barcelona teenager has been one of the most talked-about players at the tournament, but he has yet to produce a truly defining moment in Spain’s knockout matches.

Pundits believe there is still “more to come” from the young forward. With a semi-final against France on the horizon, Yamal will have another chance to announce himself on the biggest stage.

What It Means

Spain advance to face France in what promises to be a spectacular semi-final. Both teams have shown attacking flair throughout the tournament, and the clash of styles should make for compelling viewing.

For Belgium, the focus now shifts to the future. With several key players nearing the end of their international careers, a new generation will need to step up if Belgium are to remain among the world’s elite.

Key Takeaways

  • Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute
  • Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium with a header before half-time
  • Mikel Merino scored the winner in the 88th minute as a substitute
  • Spain face France in the semi-finals
  • Belgium’s golden generation era may be over after another quarter-final exit