The roar that thundered through the stadium on Friday night was the sound of football history being rewritten in real time, as Mikel Merino delivered yet another moment of knockout‑stage brilliance to propel Spain into a coveted World Cup semi‑final.
Merino, now firmly cemented as Spain’s ultimate clutch weapon, became the first substitute in World Cup history to score decisive, match‑winning goals in two separate knockout matches at a single tournament.
Just days after his 91st‑minute strike eliminated Portugal, the 30‑year‑old midfielder repeated the miracle this time with an 88th‑minute volley that shattered Belgium’s resistance and elevated him into instant folklore.
Spain’s path to victory was anything but straightforward. Manager Luis de la Fuente made a bold early call, replacing Pedri with Fabian Ruiz, who rewarded the gamble by firing Spain ahead after half an hour. But Belgium refused to fold.
Charles De Ketelaere produced a stunning equaliser late in the first half, becoming the first player to breach Spain’s defence in the entire tournament.
As the second half dragged on and fatigue tightened its grip, the match seemed destined for extra time a tense, exhausting battle neither side wanted. Then Merino arrived, once again transforming a tactical substitution into a moment of destiny.
Spain survived. Merino delivered. And the World Cup gained another unforgettable chapter.
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