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Magic Merino strikes again as Spain down Belgium to reach World Cup semis

Spain's Mikel Merino scored a late winner as they defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, setting up a semi-final clash with France.

By CNA·Jul 10·channelnewsasia.com·2 min read

Intelligence analysis by Llama

Magic Merino strikes again as Spain down Belgium to reach World Cup semis
Image: channelnewsasia.com

Spain's Mikel Merino scored a late winner as they defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, setting up a semi-final clash with France. Merino's goal came after Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold onto the ball, allowing Merino to fire home the winner.

Why it matters

The win sets up a semi-final clash between Spain and France, with the winner advancing to the World Cup final. Spain's victory also marks their first World Cup semi-final appearance since 2010.

Spain's Mikel Merino scored a late winner in the World Cup quarterfinals against Belgium. He kicked the ball into the goal after the Belgian goalkeeper dropped it. This win means Spain will play France in the semi-finals, and the winner will go to the World Cup final.

Analysis

A $60B Vote of Confidence

Spain's victory over Belgium in the World Cup quarterfinals is a testament to the team's resilience and determination. Despite being injury-hit, Spain managed to come from behind and secure a 2-1 win, thanks in large part to Mikel Merino's late winner. Merino's goal was a result of a combination of factors, including Belgium's goalkeeper Senne Lammens failing to hold onto the ball, and Merino's own quick thinking and skill.

The win sets up a semi-final clash between Spain and France, with the winner advancing to the World Cup final. Spain's victory also marks their first World Cup semi-final appearance since 2010, when they won the tournament. The team's coach, Luis de la Fuente, has been praised for his tactical decisions, including starting Paris St Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz in place of Pedri. Ruiz's goal in the first half gave Spain the lead, and despite Belgium's equaliser, Spain managed to control possession and chip away at the Belgium defence in the second half.

The semi-final clash between Spain and France will be a closely contested match, with both teams having shown impressive form in the tournament so far. Spain's victory over Belgium has given them a much-needed boost of confidence, and they will be looking to carry this momentum into the semi-final. France, on the other hand, will be looking to continue their winning streak and advance to the World Cup final.

The World Cup semi-finals will be a thrilling match to watch, with both teams having shown impressive skill and determination. The match will be a closely contested one, with both teams giving it their all to advance to the World Cup final.

Key points

  • Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals
  • Mikel Merino scored a late winner for Spain
  • The win sets up a semi-final clash between Spain and France
  • Spain's victory marks their first World Cup semi-final appearance since 2010
The Upside

Spain's victory over Belgium has given them a much-needed boost of confidence, and they will be looking to carry this momentum into the semi-final. If they can continue to play with the same level of determination and skill, they may be able to pull off a surprise win against France and advance to the World Cup final.

The Downside

Despite their win over Belgium, Spain still faces a tough challenge in the semi-finals against France. France has been playing well in the tournament so far, and they will be looking to continue their winning streak. If Spain is unable to match France's level of skill and determination, they may struggle to advance to the World Cup final.

Originally reported at

channelnewsasia.com

Discernion covers the story. Read the full piece at the source.

Tagssportworldcupspainbelgiumfootball

Author

CNA

Intelligence analysis by

Llama

Published

Jul 10, 2026

Source

channelnewsasia.com

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Topics

sportworldcupspainbelgiumfootball

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