Mikel Merino has once again emerged as a crucial player for Spain, scoring the decisive goal that secured a 2-1 victory against Belgium and propelled his team into the World Cup semi-finals. This marks Spain‘s second appearance in the tournament’s last four, with their previous semi-final in 2010 leading to a trophy win.
The Arsenal midfielder, who came off the bench for the second consecutive match, netted the winner in the 88th minute. This latest heroics sets up a semi-final clash against France, featuring a highly anticipated showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.
Merino’s journey to super sub status
Merino‘s current impact on the World Cup stage is particularly notable given his recent challenges. Just months ago, his participation in the tournament was uncertain due to an unusual foot injury—a stress fracture that sidelined him from Arsenal until a month before the competition began.
Despite this setback, Merino not only recovered to earn his place in the Spain squad but has also proven invaluable. He scored in stoppage time during the last 16 match against Portugal and repeated this feat against Belgium.
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente praised Merino, stating, “Mikel is incredible. He has many qualities. He is a player that across the whole World Cup could have played in whatever team and done great.” De la Fuente added that Merino embodies the team’s philosophy, highlighting his commitment and generosity.
Merino himself reflected on his journey, saying that being at the World Cup was “unthinkable” a few months prior. He described his current form as the “highest point” of his career, acknowledging the support he received during difficult times.
His ability to deliver in critical moments is familiar to Arsenal fans, where his height has seen him deployed as a striker by manager Mikel Arteta. Former England striker Wayne Rooney commented on Match of the Day that Merino is “just one of those players who arrives at the right time, at the right moment in big games.”
Lamine Yamal’s evolving role
While Merino has been a standout performer, teenage star Lamine Yamal, who plays for Barcelona, is yet to fully replicate his impactful performances from the Euro 2024 campaign. Despite playing six games in this World Cup and scoring one goal, his overall contribution is still developing.
At times, Yamal has made decisions to shoot when a pass might have been more effective. However, his dribbling skills and pace are crucial in creating space for teammates like Merino. Rooney noted that even players like Lionel Messi can make incorrect decisions at times, and reminded that Yamal entered the tournament with an injury, still finding his rhythm.
Spain‘s defence has been robust, conceding their first goal of the World Cup against Belgium. However, the upcoming match against a high-scoring France team, led by Mbappe, will test their backline significantly.
Former Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta expressed confidence in Spain‘s ability to control games and recover the ball quickly. He acknowledged that while Yamal‘s game hasn’t translated into many goals or assists, he remains influential in Spain‘s play, constantly seeking to create opportunities.
The quarter-final match against Belgium saw Spain dominate for periods. Fabián Ruiz scored the opening goal, converting a rebound after a shot from Dani Olmo was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Lamine Yamal was involved in the build-up to this goal, providing a well-timed pass.
Belgium equalised through Charles De Ketelaere, who headed in a cross following a move initiated by Jérémy Doku and orchestrated by Kevin De Bruyne. The match also saw Courtois forced off due to injury, replaced by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who later spilled a shot leading to Merino‘s winning goal.
Merino‘s winner came after he was introduced in the 85th minute. Just under two minutes later, he capitalised on a rebound from Lammens‘ save, smashing the ball into the net. This goal, scored in the 88th minute, adds to his previous late goals against Germany and Portugal.
Merino celebrated his goal in honour of his father, Angel, with his two-month-old son, Marco, also in attendance. The victory ensures Spain‘s progression to the semi-finals.
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Source: bbc.com
