De la Fuente salutes Merino as Spain beat Portugal to reach quarter-finals | OneFootball

Luis de la Fuente insisted Spain’s progress rests on execution, not luck, after his late changes helped defeat Portugal and reach the quarter-finals. Mikel Merino was central to the winner.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, he waited over 70 minutes to alter the game, then brought on Ferran Torres, Fabián Ruiz and Merino, who combined for the decisive move. He urged fair recognition for Merino.

De la Fuente has 45 games in charge, 33 wins, 10 draws and 2 defeats, and Spain are 35 unbeaten, two shy of Italy. He has shifted Spain towards a centre-back-led side, with Unai Simón on 609 World Cup minutes without conceding as Cubarsí and Laporte anchor the defence.

The coach said he shut out much of the pre-tournament criticism, while players channelled outside noise, including after the Cabo Verde draw. He stressed trust and merit in selection and praised those who do not start. He also moved to refocus Lamine and manage Pedri’s fatigue.

Merino celebrated in San Fermín colours and, after recently becoming a father, said wife Lola and baby Marco will travel to Los Angeles for the quarter-final.

Belgium come next. They once derailed Spain in 1970 qualifying, Euro 1980 and at Mexico 1986 on penalties, yet Spain have seven wins and one draw from the last 8 meetings. De la Fuente remains wary and has warned against complacency.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo