Reporting note: this article draws on The Guardian; PGLive provides the summary and editorial framing.
Spain Advances to World Cup Semi-Finals
Spain has secured a spot in the World Cup semi-finals following a 2-1 victory over Belgium. The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when substitute Mikel Merino capitalized on a spilled save by Belgium’s backup goalkeeper, Senne Lammers, to net the winner. Spain will now face France in the next round.
Key Match Events
Spain initially took the lead through Fabian Ruiz in the 30th minute, finishing a rebound after a Dani Olmo shot was parried. Belgium responded before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere headed in a cross from Timothy Castagne, leveling the score at 1-1. Despite sustained pressure from Spain, the match remained deadlocked until Merino’s late intervention.
Belgium Injury Concerns
The match was marked by significant personnel challenges for Belgium. Youri Tielemans was withdrawn from the starting XI shortly before kickoff. The situation worsened when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off the pitch in tears during the second half, clutching his thigh. Clinical evaluation of the injury is pending, but his departure left the Belgian defense vulnerable during the final stages of the match. Kevin De Bruyne also required substitution late in the game, further disrupting Belgium's tactical structure.
What Comes Next
For Spain, the focus shifts to their upcoming semi-final clash against France. Luis de la Fuente’s side continues to rely on high-impact substitutions, with Merino proving pivotal in late-game scenarios throughout the tournament. Belgium, meanwhile, must assess the long-term impact of their squad's physical toll following this quarter-final exit.
A single, mud-caked goalkeeper glove lay discarded near the edge of the technical area.
