Matadors Survive Scare: Merino's Late Winner Sends Spain to World Cup Semifinals

In a fiercely contested World Cup quarterfinal, Spain edged past Belgium 2-1 to secure a spot in the semifinals. The hard-fought victory was sealed by substitute Mikel Merino, who capitalized on Belgian goalkeeper Sven Lens' error deep into stoppage time to net the decisive goal. While Spain did not display their most polished form, their resolute defense and individual brilliance of key players made them a formidable opponent.

Post-match, the media provided individual ratings for the Spanish players.

Manager Luis de la Fuente received an 8/10 — once again praised for the inspired substitution of Merino, who emerged as a game-changer in the closing stages. His tactical adjustments injected renewed energy and thrust into the team. The decision to start Fabián Ruiz over Pedri was a bold one, and Ruiz repaid the faith with a goal. Facing Belgium's stubborn resistance, the 65-year-old coach remained composed, demanding his players seek a winning opportunity — and they delivered.

Goalkeeper Unai Simón managed only a 5/10 — struggling in the first half, failing to save Belgium's only shot on target and committing multiple errant long passes. His lack of chemistry with outfield players disrupted Spain's usual forward rhythm. A reckless rush off his line late in the match nearly proved costly.

Right-back Pedro Porro earned a 7/10 — lively at both ends of the pitch, contributing offensively while effectively neutralizing Jérémy Doku. With Lamine Yamal struggling early on, Porro's overlapping runs became a key attacking outlet.

Center-back Aymeric Laporte scored a 7/10 — rarely tested defensively, he dictated play with pinpoint long passes. After Simón's baffling rush, Laporte made a vital covering intervention.

Center-back Pau Cubarsí received a 6/10 — a mixed performance. His passes occasionally carved open Belgium's midfield, but defensively he was caught out, beaten by Charles De Ketelaere's equalizing header and booked after being outfoxed by Kevin De Bruyne. He steadied in the second half.

Left-back Marc Cucurella got a 7/10 — pushed forward whenever possible, providing width to stretch Belgium's defense. His flank saw little in the way of genuine threats.

Midfielder Rodri earned an 8/10 — at times operating at his peak, serving as the team's metronome in transitions. His game was crisp and efficient, dictating the tempo masterfully.

Midfielder Fabián Ruiz took a 7/10 — though his distribution lacked Pedri's influence, he seized his chance to open the scoring. Faded in the second half and was replaced by Pedri, the man he had displaced in the lineup.

Midfielder Dani Olmo scored a 6/10 — started brightly but gradually drifted out of the contest, failing to produce a defining moment; his waning influence in the second half was a notable shortcoming.

Left winger Álex Baena got a 6/10 — the nimble playmaker began adequately but soon went quiet. He could have been substituted at halftime, but was actually withdrawn before the 30th minute for Ferran Torres.

Right winger Lamine Yamal received a 6/10 — showed strong desire to take on defenders and change the game. Occasionally troubled Belgium with his extraordinary individual skill. However, he lacked cutting-edge end product, and by his high standards, his disappointing World Cup continued. He delivered some decent crosses, one nearly setting up Ferran Torres, but the young star again fell short of expectations.

Center-forward Mikel Oyarzabal managed only a 5/10 — held the ball up well in the first half but was peripheral overall. Flash touches here and there, yet he never consistently threatened Belgium's goal as a true striker. Subbed off while Spain were still searching for a goal, suggesting that despite his contributions earlier in the tournament, he may not be the ideal solution up front.

Substitute midfielder Mikel Merino earned an 8/10 — again the match-winner. Spain's super-sub continued his stunning run in the tournament, reaffirming his reliability.

Substitute midfielder Pedri got a 6/10 — introduced without making a significant impact, diligently keeping possession flowing. Used his excellent vision to stretch spaces. It will be interesting to see if he can regain his starting spot for the semifinal.

Substitute center-forward Ferran Torres scored a 5/10 — eager to create through movement but wasteful, failing to produce any tangible result.

Substitute left winger Nico Williams got a 5/10 — had a few touches but could not mount an effective challenge against Belgium's defense.