LOS ANGELES: Spain secured a place in the World Cup semi-finals after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic 88th-minute winner to seal a 2-1 victory over Belgium.
Fabian Ruiz gave Spain the lead in the 30th minute after converting a rebound when Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois denied Dani Olmo’s initial effort. Belgium responded before halftime, with Charles De Ketelaere heading in a cross from Timothy Castagne in the 41st minute to make it 1-1.
Spain dominated possession for much of the match in Los Angeles but had to wait until the closing stages to find the decisive goal. The second half saw both goalkeepers make important saves before Courtois was forced off with an injury in the 71st minute. He was replaced by Senne Lammens.
The breakthrough came just two minutes from full time when Lammens parried a long-range shot from Pau Cubarsí. Merino was quickest to react, calmly converting the rebound to send Spain into the semi-finals.
Spain will face France on Tuesday for a place in the World Cup semi final.
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