Merino’s late goal propels Spain past Belgium and into the World Cup semifinals
Spain substitute Mikel Merino scored from close range in the 88th minute, securing a 2-1 victory against injury-stricken Belgium on Friday and paving the way for a semi-final matchup with France.
After the teams were tied at 1-1 at halftime, Spain secured the victory when Belgium’s substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois in the second half, was unable to keep out Pau Cubarsi’s low shot.
The ball bounced in front of the keeper, providing Merino with just enough time to strike home as the sold-out crowd, predominantly supporting Spain, erupted on a sweltering day at Los Angeles Stadium.
The only other occasion Spain reached the semi-finals at the World Cup was in 2010, when they emerged victorious in the tournament. They secured fourth place in 1950 when the final round was conducted as a group stage.
SPAIN INITIATES WITH FORCE
Spain started strong, with Fabian Ruiz scoring in the 30th minute. He capitalized on a diving save by Courtois, sending a shot through defender Timothy Castagne’s legs and into the net.
Ruiz’s goal justified Spain coach Luis de la Fuente’s unexpected choice to begin the match with the Paris St. Germain midfielder instead of Pedri, who replaced Ruiz early in the second half.
Belgium answered 11 minutes later with a goal from Charles De Ketelaere, who executed his run flawlessly and directed Castagne’s cross past goalkeeper Unai Simon, marking the first goal Spain has allowed in the tournament.
The equaliser revitalized Belgium as the teams fought through to halftime in the sweltering heat.equalizer
Spain emerged revitalized after the break, steadily working to penetrate the Belgium defense until Merino, who was brought on in the 86th minute, ultimately found the net, much to the joy of their fans.
Belgium captain Youri Tielemans was removed from the starting lineup just before kickoff due to an injury sustained during the warm-up, with Hans Vanaken stepping in as his replacement.
Belgium was also missing midfielder Amadou Onana, who suffered a torn ACL during their round-of-16 victory against the United States.
Among those present at the sold-out stadium were musicians Courtney Love and Noel Gallagher, American actor Brad Pitt, and Spanish actors Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem.
European champions Spain will take on tournament favorites France in Dallas on Tuesday for a chance to secure a place in the final.
