Merino strikes late as Spain edges Belgium to set up World Cup semifinal against France

Super substitute Mikel Merino broke Belgum's hearts, and sent Spain into a World Cup semifinal showdown against France, with a late goal in a gripping 2-1 win in the Los Angeles suburb of Inglewood on Friday.

The stunning finish in the 88th minute set up a tantalizing showdown between European champion Spain and tournament favorite France, led by red-hot captain Kylian Mbappe, in Dallas on Tuesday.

At the other end of the field, there was nothing but lament and regret for Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who spilled a blocked shot into the path of Merino after being inserted into the game late.

"I've done this again and it's happened to me again, so it would seem that coincidence exists," a smiling Merino said. "If you're ready and you try, I guess it can happen for you."

The 30-year-old midfielder prided himself on staying ready to contribute when called upon.

"Honestly, it's crazy to be able to help the team once again," he added. "This time in a different way, but at the same time to believe and trust that the opposing goalkeeper could make a mistake, and to stay alert. I prepare for when the moment comes, and hopefully they keep coming."

Merino is the first to admit he also needed luck, and Lammens provided it after he was forced into his first World Cup match in the 71st minute, following an injury to starter Thibaut Courtois.

Pamplona native Merino entered in the 86th minute and scored on his second touch of the match, running into the box like one of his hometown's famous bulls and pouncing after Lammens lost control of Pau Cubarsí's long shot.

Fabián Ruiz knocked in a rebound in the 30th minute for the Spaniards, but Belgian forward Charles De Ketelaere evened things up in the 41st minute, notching the first goal conceded by La Roja in this entire World Cup.

Merino's clutch strike against the upset-minded Red Devils sent Spain into the semifinals for the first time since winning the title in 2010. A powerhouse matchup with France had been anticipated since the draw was announced late last year, and the Spaniards expressed gratitude after sealing their spot.

"We came here for this, to play against the best teams in the world," Merino said. "We are confident in our possibilities, while at the same time respecting the opposition. This is one of those games that you dream of when you're a kid, and now we have a chance to compete against a massive rival. Hopefully we'll get the win."