Merino Strikes Late Again as Spain Edge Past Battling Belgium
Merino Strikes Late Again as Spain Edge Past Battling Belgium
What a cracker that was. Spain scraped past a gutsy Belgium in a tight, top-quality quarter-final at SoFi Stadium to set up a mouth-watering semi-final against France.
Spain started on the front foot, dominating the ball as they usually do. They deservedly went ahead around the half-hour mark when Fabián Ruiz slotted home a clinical finish after some slick midfield passing. It was a goal that had Spain written all over it — quick, patient football that pulled Belgium's defence apart.
But Belgium weren't there just to make up the numbers. They grew into the match and levelled things up right on the stroke of half-time through Charles De Ketelaere, who finished off a sharp counter with a cool, composed strike. The Belgian fans went mad, and it was 1-1 at the break — a lovely goal that showed Belgium still pack a punch on the break.
The second half was scrappy and tense, both sides carving out half-chances but nobody able to find that killer touch. Then, with barely two minutes left, Mikel Merino popped up again. Having already been Spain's late hero in the Round of 16, the midfielder struck once more, poking home the winner right at the death. Pure Merino — showing up in the box at exactly the right moment.
Spain dug deep and showed their nous to see it through, while Belgium can walk away with their heads held high after a real battle. You always back Spain when it comes down to the wire, and now they've got France waiting for them in the semis.
A brilliant night for La Roja — they're looking like genuine contenders again.
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