Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after securing a dramatic 2–1 victory over Belgium in a closely contested quarter-final on Friday.
Fabián Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute, but Belgium responded before half-time through Charles De Ketelaere to level the score. With the match seemingly heading for extra time, substitute Mikel Merino struck in the 88th minute, capitalising on a goalkeeping error to seal Spain’s place in the last four.
Belgium’s hopes were also dealt a blow when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off injured during the second half, with replacement Senne Lammens unable to prevent Merino’s late winner. Spain will now face France in the semi-finals, while Belgium’s impressive World Cup campaign comes to an end after a spirited performance.
