FIFA World Cup: Spain leave it late to topple Belgium, set up semi-final against France
Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in a late-game victory to advance to the FIFA World Cup semi-finals against France. The match was decided by a goal from substitute Mikel Merino in the 88th minute.
Why it matters
The result determines the progression of major international teams in a high-profile global sporting tournament.
Spain substitute Mikel Merino fired home from close range in the 88th minute to snatch a 2-1 win for his side over injury-hit Belgium and set up a semi-final clash with France.
After the teams went in level at 1-1 following the first half, Spain found the winner when Belgium's back-up goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who came on in the second period for the injured Thibaut Courtois, failed to hold Pau Cubarsi's low strike.
The ball bounced in front of the keeper, giving Merino just enough time to fire home as the sold-out crowd largely backing Spain erupted on a sweltering day at Los Angeles Stadium.
The only other time Spain have reached the semi-finals at the World Cup was in 2010, when they won the tournament. They came fourth in 1950 when the final round was a group stage.
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