Merino Late strike sets up semi-final showdown with France as Spain eliminates Belgium

Mikel Merino once again came from the bench to seal a win for Spain as the European Champions thrashed Belgium 2-1 on Friday, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.

Spain who has now qualified for the semi-finals will face France on Tuesday as the two giants hope to book their spot in the WORLD Cup Finals.

La Roja looked better side from the first whistle, dominating the game at Los Angeles, and after a number of attempts secured their first goal from Fabian Ruiz, who fired from close range after Thibaot Courtois made a blunder from Dani Olmo shot.

Belgium however did not hold back, becoming the first team to score against Belgium at this summer’s World Cup when Charles De Katelaere strikes a brilliant header from Timothy Castagne just few minutes to the break to make it 1-1.

Spain continued with their pursue for a winning goal in the second half, with Belgium also showcasing their confidence until the last minutes of the game.

With just two minutes of normal time remaining, Merino who scored an injury-time goal against Portugal in the previous round scored a brilliant goal from goalkeeping error, this time from Manchester United’s Senne Lammens.

In today’s fixture, Harry Kane’s England will battle for the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final when they play Norway at 12:00 a.m. Kenyan time.

Thomas Tuchel will keenly select his team to face Norway keeping in mind that England suffered some injuries when they eliminated Mexico in the round of 16.

Among the players with injuries include Mark Guehi who is recuperating from a knock, and Race James who has been having a hamstring problem. Right-back will be an added issue to the England side considering that Jarell Quansah’s two match ban has been confirmed.

However, England have other set of talents and loads of possible configurations Tuchel can use in the defense. Aside from the staters, players such as Dan Burn, Djed Spence and John Stones are available in the defense.

Norway on the other hand is coming into this game with their full squad hoping to qualify for the semi-final of the tournament. Do you think Erling Haaland will help them secure victory against England? This will be an interesting game to watch as both teams have been consistent since the beginning of the 2026 World Cup competition.