Last-gasp winner sends Spain through
Los Angeles: Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after a tense 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium, decided by a late strike.
Spain started on the front foot and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Ruiz found the net to put his side 1-0 ahead.
Belgium responded before the break. In the 41st minute, De Ketelaere scored to level the match at 1-1, setting up a high-intensity second half.
With both defences holding firm and extra time looming, Merino delivered the decisive moment in the 88th minute. His goal made it 2-1, and Belgium could not find an equaliser, ending their campaign as Spain moved into the last four.
