India, July 11 -- Mikel Merino continues to deliver when Spain need him most. The midfielder came off the bench to score the winning goal for the second straight knockout match, finding the net in the 88th minute as Spain edged Belgium 2-1 to book their place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals, where they will take on France. It was another decisive contribution from Merino, who had also scored the winner against Portugal in the Round of 16. Belgium showed tremendous resilience throughout the contest, frustrating Spain for long spells, but La Roja's relentless pressure eventually paid off as Merino struck late to send his side into the last four. It marks Spain's first World Cup semifinal appearance since their title-winning run in 2010.

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