Merino puts Spain into World Cup semi-finals as Belgium rue costly Courtois injury

Mikel Merino came off the bench in the 85th minute and scored in the 87th minute to send Spain into the 2026 World Cup semi-finals with a victory over Belgium in Los Angeles. The goal, a poacher's finish on a loose ball, continues Merino's remarkable record as a super-sub, having previously scored crucial late goals at Euro 2024 and earlier in this tournament. Belgium were hampered by the absence of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who was injured and could only watch from the bench as Spain secured a semi-final date with France in Dallas.