Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal for the second consecutive knockout match as Spain defeated Belgium 2-1 to set up a blockbuster FIFA World Cup semi-final against France.

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after Mikel Merino came off the bench to score the winning goal in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium, continuing his remarkable impact as the team’s super substitute.

The Arsenal midfielder struck the decisive goal for the second straight knockout game, helping Spain national football team reach the last four of the World Cup for only the second time since lifting the trophy in 2010.

Spain’s reward is a highly anticipated semi-final clash against France national football team, with football fans eagerly awaiting a headline showdown between French superstar Kylian Mbappé and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

Mikel Merino Emerges as Spain’s Super Sub

Merino has become Spain’s unexpected match-winner during the knockout stage. The midfielder first rescued his side with a stoppage-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16 before repeating the feat against Belgium in the quarter-finals.

His back-to-back winning goals have transformed him into one of Spain’s most influential players despite not starting either match.

Injury Nearly Ended World Cup Dream

Merino’s World Cup heroics come after a difficult year marked by injury.

In January, the Arsenal star suffered a rare stress fracture in his foot—an injury so unusual that specialists reportedly had limited experience treating it. The setback ruled him out for several months and placed his World Cup hopes in serious doubt.

He only returned to action for Arsenal a month before the tournament began but recovered in time to earn a place in Spain’s squad.

Spain Eye Second World Cup Title

Spain are now just one victory away from reaching another FIFA World Cup final. Their only previous appearance in the semi-finals came in 2010, when they went on to win the tournament for the first time.

With Merino delivering in crucial moments and a talented squad led by emerging stars and experienced internationals, Spain will be confident of challenging France for a place in the final.

The upcoming semi-final is expected to be one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures, with both European giants aiming to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup final.