• •Mikel Merino scored a late winner in the quarter-final match to seal Spain’s 2-1 result, as reported by ESPN, BBC Sport, and The Guardian.
• •The Guardian identified a key tactical factor, noting that Belgium struggled significantly following a costly injury to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
• •Pundits for the BBC, including Wayne Rooney and Cesar Azpilicueta, observed that while Lamine Yamal was influential, his performance has room for further growth.
• •It remains uncertain how Spain will address its goal-scoring reliance; ESPN reports that despite boasting high-profile attacking talent, the team continues to struggle with finishing fluidity.

Spain secured a spot in the World Cup semifinals following a 2-1 victory over Belgium, capped by a late goal from Mikel Merino. While ESPN highlights the team's ongoing struggle to convert creative dominance into clinical scoring, The Guardian suggests the result was heavily influenced by a critical injury to Belgium's goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. BBC analysts shift the focus toward the ceiling of forward Lamine Yamal, arguing his impact in this match represents only a fraction of his potential. Whether this squad can overcome its current offensive inconsistencies will determine its success in the upcoming semifinal round.