Mikel Merino once again proved to be a super-sub, coming off the bench to score a dramatic late winner as Spain booked their place in the World Cup semifinals./View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMSpain's super-sub Mikel Merino came up with another decisive contribution, scoring a late winner as La Roja defeated Belgium 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup semifinals. (AP Photo)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMIt was the second straight knockout game in which Mikel Merino came off the bench to score the winning goal for Spain. (AP Photo)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMSpain edged Belgium 2-1 to book their place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals, where they will take on France. (AFP)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMFabian Ruiz, who got the start over Barcelona's Pedri in the midfield, scored the opening goal for Spain. (AFP)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMBelgium forward Charles De Ketelaere notched the first goal allowed by Spain in the entire World Cup in the 41st minute. (AP Photo)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMIt was the first time in this World Cup when Spain conceded a goal. (Getty Images via AFP)/View Photos in a new improved layoutPublished on Jul 11, 2026 3:30 AMLamine Yamal failed to put his name on the scoresheet but he still made big impact as he was also named Player of the Match. (REUTERS)