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[SPORTS] · Spain, Belgium, United States · 100 sources

Spain reaches World Cup semi‑finals with 2‑1 win over Belgium

Spain defeated Belgium 2‑1 in the quarter‑final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on 10 July. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 30th minute, while Belgium equalised through Charles De Ketelaere before halftime. In the second half, Belgium’s first‑choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the field with a thigh injury and was replaced by Senne Lammens. Lammens spilled a low shot from Pau Cubarsí, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to tap in the decisive goal in the 88th minute – his second consecutive late knockout‑stage winner. Belgium entered the match without several key players, including injured captain Youri Tielemans and midfielder Amadou Onana, and saw further setbacks when Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku could not change the outcome. Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente praised the team’s character and said they will face tournament favourites France in the semi‑final in Dallas. Merino’s impact off the bench has become a decisive factor for La Roja, while youngster Lamine Yamal provided width and pace throughout the game.

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Merino lo vuelve a hacer por España [mayacomunicacion.com.mx]
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