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Mikel Merino once again came off the bench to deliver victory for Spain, as the reigning European champions defeated Belgium 2-1 to advance to the World Cup semi-finals. La Roja dominated possession right from kick-off in Los Angeles, and after a spell of patient build-up play, they deservedly took the lead. Fabian Ruiz found the net from close range after Thibaut Courtois failed to hold on to a Dani Olmo effort.

However, Belgium became the first team to score against Spain in this summer’s World Cup when Charles De Ketelaere rose brilliantly to head home a fine cross from Timothy Castagne just four minutes before half-time.

The Red Devils grew in belief as the match progressed, but Spain continued to press forward in search of a winner. Their persistence paid off just two minutes from full-time when Merino, who had also netted a last-gasp winner in the previous round against Portugal, capitalised on another goalkeeping mistake—this time by Courtois’ replacement, Senne Lammens—to fire Spain into the last four.

Below are the player ratings for Spain, as Luis de la Fuente’s side now prepare for a thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final rematch against France in Arlington on Tuesday.

Goalkeeper & Defence

Unai Simon (6/10): Conceded his first goal in a World Cup since the group stage of Qatar 2022, and there was little he could do about De Ketelaere’s precise header. However, his decision to charge out of goal in stoppage time was baffling, with Aymeric Laporte rescuing him from potential disaster.

Pedro Porro (6/10): Played a crucial part in Spain’s opening goal by outpacing Jeremy Doku before delivering a low cross that found Dani Olmo. Defensively, he handled Doku’s threat reasonably well.

Pau Cubarsi (6/10): For the first time in the tournament, the young Barcelona defender looked unsettled in the first half as De Ketelaere beat him to the equaliser. He was also booked for a tactical foul on Kevin De Bruyne. Nonetheless, Cubarsi regained his composure after the interval and redeemed himself with a key shot that led to Spain’s winning goal.

Aymeric Laporte (7/10): Had a comfortable outing until Romelu Lukaku’s introduction added pressure. Still, Laporte made a crucial intervention in injury time to preserve Spain’s lead.

Marc Cucurella (6/10): Always provided an outlet down the left flank, though he was less influential in attack compared to earlier matches. His defensive work remained solid.

Midfield

Rodri (8/10): As ever, Spain’s rhythm flowed through their midfield general. His precise passing opened up multiple opportunities, and he remains central to Spain’s strategy. A commanding display that will challenge France’s midfield in the next round.

Fabian Ruiz (6/10): Justified his inclusion ahead of Pedri by opening the scoring and was performing well before being substituted ten minutes into the second half.

Attack

Lamine Yamal (6/10): The teenage sensation produced moments of brilliance, including a perfectly weighted pass that sent Porro through for the first goal. He tested Courtois several times but will be frustrated not to have added to his World Cup tally or registered an assist.

Dani Olmo (6/10): Displayed intelligent movement and was instrumental in Fabian’s goal but wasted several promising positions with poor finishing and decision-making in the second half.

Alex Baena (3/10): Worked hard and showed flashes of skill early on but lacked attacking impact. His early substitution after the break was expected.

Mikel Oyarzabal (4/10): Put in a tireless shift up front but rarely threatened. His best chance came just after the hour mark, when Courtois denied him from a tight angle. Replaced with just over ten minutes left.

Substitutes & Manager

Ferran Torres (5/10): Replaced Baena in the 56th minute, initially operating wide before moving centrally after Oyarzabal’s exit. Failed to make a strong case for a starting role.

Pedri (4/10): Came on alongside Ferran Torres for Fabian Ruiz but failed to influence proceedings. Misplaced a key pass during a late counterattack. It’ll be interesting to see whether he starts against France.

Nico Williams (5/10): Entered for Oyarzabal and added energy on the left flank, troubling Belgium’s defence. Could be considered for a starting spot over Baena in Texas.

Mikel Merino (7/10): Once again played the role of Spain’s hero, scoring the decisive goal shortly after coming on in the 86th minute. His knack for clutch performances could earn him a start in the semi-final.

Luis de la Fuente (7/10): Took some bold decisions—starting Fabian Ruiz over Pedri and bringing on Merino late—and both moves paid off. However, he may need to adjust his line-up further for the upcoming clash with France.