By Bilal Ahmed
Spain have secured a spot in the FIFA World Cup semifinals for only the second time in their history, following a 2-1 victory over Belgium. The decisive goal came late in the match, sealing their progression.
The European champions are now set to face France in the semifinal match, which will take place in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday.
Merino’s impact as super sub
Mikel Merino emerged as the match-winner for Spain, scoring just minutes after being substituted into the quarterfinal. This marks the second consecutive game where Merino has come off the bench to score a crucial goal, having also netted a late goal against Portugal in the previous round.
In the 88th minute, Merino capitalised on a rebound from a strike by Pau Cubarsi, securing the win at the SoFi Stadium. His ability to make an impact from the bench has been vital for Spain throughout the tournament.
The Arsenal midfielder’s recent heroics have set the stage for a semifinal clash with France, which will feature a highly anticipated showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.
Just months ago, Merino‘s participation in the World Cup was uncertain due to an unusual foot injury. He suffered a stress fracture that ruled him out for Arsenal and put his tournament hopes in doubt until he returned to action just a month before the competition began.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised Merino, highlighting his qualities and calling him a standard-bearer for the team’s approach. Former England striker Wayne Rooney also noted Merino‘s knack for arriving at critical moments in significant matches.
De la Fuente further commented on Merino‘s versatility, stating he can excel as both a striker and a midfielder due to his understanding of the game. He described Merino as committed, generous, and always willing to work.
Match details and early goals
Spain initially took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabian Ruiz scored from a rebound. This followed a save by Thibaut Courtois from a shot by Dani Olmo.
Belgium equalised in the 41st minute, with Charles De Ketelaere heading in a cross from Timothy Castagne past goalkeeper Unai Simon. The match remained tied until Merino‘s late intervention.
During the second half, Courtois was forced to leave the field and was replaced by Senne Lammens.
Yamal’s tournament contribution
While players like Lionel Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland have been prominent, Lamine Yamal, the teenage star from Barcelona, has yet to achieve the same level of impact he showed during Spain‘s successful Euro 2024 campaign.
Yamal has played six games in this World Cup and has scored one goal. Although he has occasionally made questionable decisions, his dribbling and pace have been effective in creating space for teammates like Merino.
Rooney acknowledged that even top players like Messi can make incorrect decisions at times. He also pointed out that Yamal entered the tournament injured and is still regaining his rhythm. Yamal‘s ability to attract defenders and create space is a key contribution to the team.
Former Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta noted that while Yamal‘s game hasn’t translated into many goals or assists, he remains influential. Azpilicueta expressed confidence in Spain‘s ability to control games and recover possession quickly, highlighting that the team does not collapse under pressure.
Spain‘s defence has been robust throughout the tournament, with Belgium‘s goal being the first they have conceded. However, the upcoming match against Mbappe-led France is expected to be a significant test for their backline.
The semifinal against France will require Lamine Yamal and the rest of Spain‘s attacking players to perform at their best to alleviate pressure on the defence. The match is scheduled for Tuesday in Arlington, Texas.
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Source: dawn.com
