Spain edges Belgium and will face France in World Cup semifinal
Spain advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a 2-1 victory over Belgium, secured by a late goal from substitute Mikel Merino. Merino, who also scored against Portugal, has become a key impact player for the Spanish squad.
Why it matters
The match results determine the progression of major international teams in the World Cup, impacting global sports rankings and fan engagement.
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Mikel Merino is Spain's World Cup hero once again, and even he finds it hard to believe.
Soccer Edition France downs Morocco 2-0 to advance to the World Cup semifinal A mere four days after Merino scored a clutch goal as a substitute in injury time to beat Portugal, he found himself in the right spot again in the quarterfinals when Belgium's backup goalkeeper spilled the ball into his path.
Merino booted it home in the 88th minute, sending Spain to a 2-1 victory Friday and into a titanic semifinal showdown with tournament favorite France.
"I've done this again, and it's happened to me again, so it would seem that coincidence exists," a smiling Merino said. "If you're ready and you try, I guess it can happen for you."
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