https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, July 11 (Alliance News): Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner as Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Merino came off the bench in the 86th minute and struck the decisive goal two minutes later after Belgian substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a shot from Pau Cubarsi. It was the midfielder’s second consecutive match-winning goal after also scoring against Portugal in the Round of 16.
Spain took the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, who converted a rebound after Dani Olmo’s effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Belgium equalised before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere headed home from a Timothy Castagne cross.
Courtois left the match in the 71st minute with an apparent leg injury and was replaced by Lammens, whose mistake led to Spain’s winning goal.
The victory sends Spain into the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since winning the tournament in 2010. La Roja will face France in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday for a place in the July 19 final.
Spain also extended their unbeaten run to a national record 36 matches, while Belgium’s 18-match unbeaten streak came to an end.
