By 
Spain booked a mouth-watering World Cup semi-final against France after Mikel Merino struck late to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles.
Merino, introduced in the 88th minute, proved decisive almost immediately, capitalising on a costly error by Belgium’s stand-in goalkeeper Senne Lammens to score the winner just 117 seconds after coming off the bench.
Sky sports reports that the Arsenal midfielder turned home the rebound after Pau Cubarsi’s effort slipped through Lammens’ grasp, scoring with only his second touch of the match.
Lammens had been thrust into action after first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured, and his late mistake proved decisive in an otherwise spirited Belgian display.
Read more: Mbappe scores eight as France beat Morocco to reach World Cup semi-finals
Spain had taken the lead through Fabian Ruiz, whose well-crafted finish capped an impressive team move.
Belgium responded before the break as makeshift striker Charles De Ketelaere powered home a header from Timothy Castagne’s inviting cross, handing Spain their first concession of the tournament.
With extra time looming, Merino once again delivered when it mattered most, repeating his role as match-winner after his decisive late goal against Portugal in the previous round.
The midfielder has developed a reputation for producing in crucial moments, both for club and country.
The victory extends Spain’s unbeaten run to 36 matches, dating back to March 2023, and keeps Luis de la Fuente’s side firmly on course for World Cup glory.
Spain will now face tournament favourites France in a blockbuster semi-final in Texas on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake.
De la Fuente also set a new record by becoming the first international coach to go unbeaten in his opening 13 matches at major tournaments.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments