Spain advances to semifinals
Spain secured a 2-1 victory over Belgium in a recent World Cup quarterfinal match, with Mikel Merino scoring a decisive goal in the 88th minute. This win propels Spain into the semifinals, where they are set to face France. Merino’s late strike marked his second consecutive match as a late hero for Spain, having also scored an injury-time winner in the last-16.
The match saw Spain take an early lead through Fabian Ruiz in the 30th minute. Ruiz capitalised on a rebound after Thibaut Courtois, Belgium’s goalkeeper, parried a shot from Dani Olmo. However, Belgium responded in the 41st minute when Charles De Ketelaere headed in a cross from Timothy Castagne, ending Spain’s record streak of 649 minutes without conceding a goal in the World Cup.
Merino’s winning goal came shortly after he entered the game in the 86th minute. He pounced on a rebound from a Pau Cubarsi shot that Belgium’s substitute goalkeeper, Senne Lammens, failed to control. Lammens had been brought into the game in the 71st minute after Courtois left the field due to an apparent thigh injury.
Key moments and player performances
Spain’s aggressive start to the match set the tone, with Ruiz’s goal providing an early advantage. The decision by Spain coach Luis de la Fuente to start Ruiz, a Paris St Germain midfielder, ahead of Pedri, proved to be effective. Ruiz’s goal was a result of a well-executed play, following a cut-back from Pedro Porro and Olmo’s initial shot.
Belgium, despite facing challenges including injuries, battled hard throughout the match. Their equaliser, a header from De Ketelaere, showcased their resilience. This goal was the first Spain had conceded in the entire tournament, highlighting the strength of their defence up to that point.
The match was also notable for the injury to Courtois, a key player for Belgium. His departure led to Lammens taking over in goal. Belgium’s efforts to find an equaliser in the closing minutes were thwarted, with Aymeric Laporte notably clearing their best chance.
Looking ahead to the semifinals
With this victory, Spain extends an unbeaten run, while Belgium’s undefeated streak came to an end. Spain’s previous best performance in the World Cup semifinals was in 2010, when they ultimately won the tournament. They also finished fourth in 1950.
The upcoming semifinal clash against France is anticipated to be a significant encounter. France is considered a tournament favourite. The match is scheduled to take place on Tuesday in Dallas.
Merino’s impact as a substitute has been crucial for Spain in recent matches, providing late goals that have propelled his team forward in the competition. His 88th-minute goal against Belgium was scored with only his second touch after coming on.
The match was held at Los Angeles Stadium, with a sold-out crowd largely supporting Spain. The conditions were described as sweltering, adding to the intensity of the quarterfinal fixture. Spain will now prepare for their semifinal match against France in Dallas on Tuesday.
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Source: aljazeera.com
