Spain is heading back to the FIFA World Cup semifinals for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2010, and they did it in dramatic fashion.

A late strike from super-sub Mikel Merino secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium on Saturday at Los Angeles Stadium, sending La Roja into a mouthwatering semifinal clash against Kylian Mbappé and France.

For soccer fans across Atlanta, the quarterfinal delivered exactly what this World Cup has become known for—high drama, elite talent, and unforgettable late-game heroics. Now, with only four teams remaining, the race for the biggest prize in world football is heating up.

Merino Delivers Another Late Moment of Magic

Spain looked destined for extra time until the 88th minute.

After Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold onto a low shot from Pau Cubarsí, Merino reacted first to the loose ball, smashing home the rebound to send Spain into the semifinals.

The Arsenal midfielder has developed a reputation for delivering when it matters most. His winner against Belgium came just days after he scored another decisive late goal against Portugal in the Round of 16.

Once again, Merino proved to be Spain’s ultimate impact substitute.

Ruiz Opens the Scoring Before Belgium Responds

Spain controlled possession from the opening whistle, with midfielders Rodri and Fabián Ruiz dictating the tempo.

Their pressure finally paid off midway through the first half.

After Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, the ball found Dani Olmo, whose shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Ruiz reacted quickest to the rebound and fired Spain into a deserved lead.

Belgium, however, refused to back down.

Just before halftime, Kevin De Bruyne slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Timothy Castagne, whose cross found Charles De Ketelaere. The striker powered home a header to level the score and hand Spain its first goal conceded of the tournament.

Belgium Battles Through Adversity

Belgium entered the quarterfinal already dealing with major setbacks.

Captain Youri Tielemans suffered a hamstring injury during warmups and was unable to start, adding to the absence of Amadou Onana, who remains sidelined with a serious knee injury.

Despite those challenges, Belgium remained resilient throughout the match.

Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku was introduced in the second half as manager Rudi Garcia searched for another comeback, but Spain’s defense stood firm when it mattered most.

Injury Adds to Belgian Heartbreak

Belgium’s difficult afternoon became even tougher when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury after 70 minutes.

His replacement, Senne Lammens, was making his FIFA World Cup debut under enormous pressure.

The young goalkeeper produced several solid moments but was left devastated after spilling the shot that allowed Merino to score the winning goal.

Following the final whistle, Courtois embraced the emotional Lammens in a touching display of leadership as Belgium’s players reflected on another painful World Cup exit.

Spain and France Set for European Heavyweight Clash

Spain’s reward is one of the tournament’s most anticipated matchups.

The European champions will now face France, led by tournament star Kylian Mbappé, in a blockbuster semifinal featuring two of the world’s most talented squads.

Spain’s fluid possession game and exciting young stars—including Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Dani Olmo—will be tested against a French side packed with experience, pace, and attacking firepower.

It’s a matchup worthy of a World Cup final—but only one nation will advance.

Atlanta Fans Can Expect More World Cup Drama

As the FIFA World Cup moves into its final stages, the excitement continues to build for fans throughout Atlanta and beyond.

Spain’s dramatic victory is another reminder that no lead, no prediction, and no favorite is ever completely safe on football’s biggest stage.

With Spain, France, Argentina, and either England or Norway still chasing glory, the semifinals promise another unforgettable chapter in what has already been an extraordinary tournament.

Community Spotlight: When the Unexpected Happens, Recovery Matters

Spain’s dramatic victory over Belgium was a reminder that even the best-laid plans can change in an instant. After Belgium pushed the match deep into a tense final stretch, Spain had to respond under pressure before Mikel Merino’s late strike finally sent La Roja into the World Cup semifinals.

Life at home and at work can bring unexpected challenges too. CAT Recovery Services helps property owners navigate the aftermath when unexpected damage disrupts their homes or businesses. Having an experienced restoration team available can make a difficult situation easier to manage and help property owners focus on getting back to normal.

When the unexpected happens, knowing who to call matters. Learn more about CAT Recovery Services and its restoration services at CAT Recovery Services.

What’s Next?

Spain faces France in a blockbuster World Cup semifinal, with a place in the championship match on the line.

Can La Roja continue its magical run, or will Mbappé lead France one step closer to another World Cup title?

Only one European giant will survive.

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Author: Quique Lopez

Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.