Spain reached its first FIFA World Cup semifinal since 2010 after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a thrilling quarterfinal on Friday. Substitute Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 88th minute, repeating his heroics from the round of 16 against Portugal.
Fabian Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute, while Charles De Ketelaere equalized before halftime. Belgium’s hopes suffered when goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left injured in the 71st minute.
Merino capitalized on a goalkeeping error to seal victory. Spain will now face France in the semifinal in Dallas, extending its unbeaten run to 36 matches.