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Mikel Merino stars again as Spain edges Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals
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Key Points:
- Mikel Merino scored a late goal in the 88th minute to secure Spain's 2-1 victory over Belgium, advancing Spain to the World Cup semifinals for the first time since 2010.
- Merino, who came on as a substitute, also scored a crucial injury-time goal in the previous round against Portugal, highlighting his impact as a late-game substitute.
- Belgium's starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left the match with a thigh injury, and backup Senne Lammens allowed the decisive rebound that led to Spain's winning goal.
- Spain took an early lead with a goal from Fabián Ruiz, but Belgium equalized in the 41st minute through Charles De Ketelaere, ending Spain's clean sheet streak in the tournament.
- Spain will face tournament favorite France in the semifinals, with Spain coach Luis De La Fuente calling it a "clash of giants."
