Spain's World Cup 2026 campaign continues to be a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess, as they secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles. The match showcased the team's ability to adapt, their star players' influence, and the emergence of a key figure who has become a late-game specialist. This win sets up an intriguing semi-final clash with France, the tournament favorites, in Texas.
The game began with a surprise for Spain as Belgium took the lead in the first half. Charles De Ketelaere, playing as a makeshift No 9, headed Timothy Castagne's cross beyond Unai Simon. However, Spain's response was swift and determined. Fabian Ruiz's well-worked opener was followed by a moment of magic from Mikel Merino. The substitute, who had only been on the pitch for 117 seconds, pounced on an error from Senne Lammens, the stand-in goalkeeper, and turned home the rebound from Pau Cubarsi's shot. This was a continuation of Merino's trend of delivering late winners, a feat that has become a signature of his performances for both club and country.
Merino's impact was immediate and significant, scoring with just his second touch. This goal was a testament to his preparation and readiness, as he had also scored a late winner in the previous round against Portugal. His ability to step up in crucial moments has become a cornerstone of Spain's success, and his performance against Belgium further solidified his status as a reliable and decisive player.
The victory extends Spain's unbeaten streak to 36 matches since March 2023, a remarkable achievement. This consistency and resilience have been key to their success, and it has positioned them as a formidable force in the tournament. The team's ability to adapt and find solutions in big moments has been a hallmark of their campaign, and it has set the stage for an exciting semi-final against France.
The match also highlighted the influence of key players like Rodri, who has been a central figure in Spain's success. His line-breaking passes in the final third have been instrumental, and he has equaled the record set by Toni Kroos in 2014. The team's technicians, including Lamine Yamal, have been moving into stealth mode at the perfect time, showcasing their artistry and industry. Yamal's performance was particularly notable, as he topped the creative charts with six efforts at goal and four successful dribbles.
As Spain continues its journey towards the final, the team's ability to adapt, their star players' influence, and the emergence of late-game specialists like Merino have been pivotal. The semi-final against France will be a test of their resilience and tactical prowess, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter. The World Cup 2026 has been a showcase of Spain's strength and depth, and their journey towards the final is a testament to their collective effort and determination.
