Spain Edge Belgium 2-1 to Reach FIFA World Cup Semi-finals
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Spain secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium on Friday, booking their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after a late winner from substitute Mikel Merino.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash between the reigning European champions and tournament favourites France, led by star forward Kylian Mbappé.
Spain controlled much of the match from the opening whistle, with Fabián Ruiz giving his side the lead in the 30th minute. After Dani Olmo’s effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois, Ruiz reacted quickest to score from the rebound.
Belgium responded before halftime despite spending long periods under pressure. Kevin De Bruyne created the opportunity by sending Timothy Castagne down the right, whose cross was met by Charles De Ketelaere with a well-timed header to level the score at 1-1.
Spain continued to dominate possession after the break, while Belgium looked dangerous on the counterattack. Young winger Lamine Yamal remained a constant threat, and both teams created several promising chances.
Belgium suffered a major setback in the second half when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury. His replacement, Senne Lammens, was making his FIFA World Cup debut under difficult circumstances.
The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when Pau Cubarsí’s long-range shot was spilled by Lammens. Merino reacted quickly to the loose ball and fired home from close range, scoring his second consecutive late match-winning goal as a substitute in the tournament.
Belgium pushed forward in search of an equaliser during the closing minutes, but Spain’s defence held firm to secure a place in the last four.
The result ends Belgium’s World Cup campaign, while Spain now turn their attention to a blockbuster semi-final against France, with a place in the FIFA World Cup final at stake.
