Belgium Eliminated From FIFA World Cup After Merino's Late Strike
Sports Updated: 11 July 2026 00:09 EAT
Photo courtesy: Arsenal striker Mikel Merino makes the difference and decisive goal against Belgium
Belgium's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end on Friday after Spain secured a dramatic 2-1 victory in the quarter-finals, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring a late winner to send La Roja into the last four.
Spain took control of the contest in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz converted from close range after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois parried Dani Olmo's initial effort. The goal gave the Spaniards a deserved lead following sustained attacking pressure.
Belgium responded before the break through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed home Timothy Castagne's cross in the 41st minute to level the match and restore hope for the Red Devils heading into the second half.
The game took another twist after the interval when Courtois was forced off with a thigh injury. The experienced goalkeeper left the pitch in visible discomfort and was replaced by Senne Lammens.
Spain continued to press for a winner and eventually found the breakthrough in the 88th minute. Lammens failed to hold a long-range effort, allowing Merino to react quickest and slot the rebound into the net.
The victory extended Spain's impressive run in the tournament and secured their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, where they will face France for a place in the final.
Belgium exited the tournament after an impressive knockout run that included victories over Senegal in the Round of 32 and the United States in the Round of 16 before falling to Spain in the quarter-finals.
The Red Devils were also dealt an early setback before kick-off after captain Youri Tielemans suffered a hamstring injury during the warm-up, forcing a late change to the starting lineup.
Merino's decisive strike continued his remarkable impact in the knockout stage, with the midfielder once again delivering a late winning goal to keep Spain's hopes of lifting the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy alive.
Tags: 2026 FIFA World Cup. Belgium Fifa 2026 World Cup FIFA Series 2026 Signs Signs Media Signs Media Kenya Limited Signs Tv Signsmedia Signst Signstv Signstvkenya Signsv Spain Spain Fc Spain Football National Team
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FELIX MAKONA
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