A Habit of Last-Minute Heroics
Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, now has a clear go-to option when his team desperately needs a goal in the closing stages of a major tournament. Mikel Merino, the Arsenal midfielder, has established himself as the team’s ultimate "super sub," repeatedly finding the back of the net in the dying seconds of high-stakes matches.
During Friday’s World Cup quarterfinal against Belgium, the score remained level at 1-1 in the 88th minute. When Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a routine shot from Pau Cubarsí, Merino was the first to react, firing home the rebound to secure a 2-1 victory and punch Spain's ticket to the semifinals.
This decisive strike came just three minutes after Merino entered the pitch. It marks the third time in recent years that the 30-year-old has saved his side from the bench, following crucial late goals against Germany in the 2024 European Championships and Portugal in the Round of 16.
«Honestly, not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined something like this happening again in the 90th minute,» Merino commented post-match. «But I have always trusted that my moment will come. It is about believing that the goalkeeper might make a mistake and being alert enough to capitalize.»
The Blockbuster Semifinal: Spain vs. France
Merino’s goal has set the stage for an electrifying semifinal clash against France this coming Tuesday. Both teams entered the tournament as favorites, and both have largely lived up to expectations.
France has impressed with its raw speed and attacking prowess, led by the prolific Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, who have combined for 13 goals. However, Spain remains a formidable opponent, riding an unbeaten streak of 36 matches thanks to their methodical, possession-heavy style of play.
Rising star Lamine Yamal remains unfazed by the French challenge. «They haven't beaten us since the Euros,» Yamal said. «They have wonderful players, but I don't think they are above anyone. We’re the two best teams here, and we aren't afraid at all.»
Breaking Down the Quarterfinal Battle
To reach this stage, Spain had to overcome a resilient Belgian side that defied expectations throughout the tournament. Belgium suffered a significant setback before kickoff when captain Youri Tielemans was sidelined with an injury, compounding their midfield woes following Amadou Onana’s previous tournament-ending knee injury.
Spain dominated the early proceedings, breaking the deadlock in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz converted a rebound following an initial effort by Dani Olmo. The decision to start Ruiz over Pedri proved effective for De la Fuente.
Belgium managed to level the score against the run of play in the 41st minute, with Charles De Ketelaere heading home a precise cross from Kevin De Bruyne. This strike marked the first time Spain had conceded in 649 minutes of tournament play. Nevertheless, it was Merino who ultimately broke the deadlock, ensuring Spain’s progression to the next stage of the World Cup.