Merino’s Decisive Goal Secures Semi-Final Spot
Spain has advanced to the World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a 2-1 victory over Belgium. The decisive goal came from Mikel Merino, who entered the match as a substitute. This marks Spain‘s second appearance in a World Cup semi-final in their history. Belgium, on the other hand, will not be able to replicate their 2018 historic run, and for many of their veteran players, this may have been their final appearance at this stage.
Merino‘s late intervention occurred in the 87th minute, just over two minutes after his introduction into the game at 85:32. He capitalised on a loose ball in Los Angeles to secure Spain‘s progression. This goal adds to Merino‘s recent history of crucial contributions, including the winning goal against Germany in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 and another winning goal against Portugal in the last 16 match on Monday. His knack for scoring late, decisive goals has become a notable pattern.
Courtois Injury and Lammens’ Introduction
The match saw a significant moment when Belgium‘s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, was forced to leave the field due to an injury in the second half. He appeared to be in discomfort with his left upper thigh, an injury sustained after making a save against Spain‘s Lamine Yamal. Courtois attempted to continue playing but ultimately had to be replaced by Senne Lammens of Manchester United in the 71st minute. The change was made after a brief delay to prepare Lammens, with Courtois visibly emotional as he exited what could be his final World Cup game.
Lammens‘ introduction to World Cup football proved challenging. He was involved in Spain‘s winning goal when he spilled a shot from Pau Cubarsí, allowing Mikel Merino to pounce on the rebound and score. This error occurred despite Lammens having a solid first season at Manchester United. The incident was particularly difficult for Courtois, who was seen slumped on the Belgium bench after the goal. Fans of Real Madrid, Courtois‘ club, are concerned about the implications of this injury for the upcoming 2026/27 season, especially given his critical role in past successes.
Key Players and Match Dynamics
Lamine Yamal was named man of the match for his performance, which reportedly had a significant physical and mental impact on the Belgium defence. His constant pressure required players like Doku to frequently track back and assist De Cuyper, who was later replaced by Joaquín Seys after an hour of play. Seys, a 21-year-old, faced Yamal directly, highlighting the challenge posed by the Spain winger.
Belgium‘s squad is currently in a transitional phase. While players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois are nearing the end of their international careers, younger talents such as Jérémy Doku, Leandro Trossard, and Amadou Onana are emerging. However, Belgium faced the match without their first-choice midfield, as Amadou Onana suffered an ACL injury against the USA, and Youri Tielemans pulled up in the warm-up. Rudi Garcia‘s contract as Belgium manager concludes after this tournament, and his future remains uncertain.
During the match, Spain‘s midfield began to assert dominance, with Rodri controlling the play. Pedri and Nico Williams combined effectively on the left flank, creating opportunities. Despite Belgium‘s efforts, including a late cross from Raskin that Lukaku attempted to head towards goal, Spain‘s defence held firm. Aymeric Laporte received a yellow card in the 94th minute, but Spain managed to clear the resulting free-kick. The match concluded with Spain securing their place in the semi-final against France, scheduled for next week.
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Source: theguardian.com
