‘Not even in my wildest dreams’ – Merino after scoring another late winner for Spain | OneFootball

Mikel Merino says scoring another late winner for Spain is a “crazy” feeling.

The super sub came on to score another winner for his country as they beat Belgium 2-1 in the World Cup quarter finals.

Merino also scored a late winner in the previous round against Portugal, and having missed four months with a foot injury between January and May, says playing a key role for his country at the tournament is something he could not have imagined earlier this year.

“Well, honestly, on the one hand, not even in my wildest dreams could I ever have imagined pulling off what’s happening right now, certainly not again in the 90th minute with the ball falling right to me inside the box,” he said.

“But on the other hand, I’d say yes, because I always trust that I can do well every time I step onto the pitch. I trust that the ball will come my way.

“And well, honestly, it’s crazy to be able to help the team once again, this time in a different way, but at the same time to believe, to trust that the opposing goalkeeper might make a mistake, and to stay alert. So, I’m really happy.”

Spain will take on France in the semi finals, who beat Morocco in the quarter finals to progress to the final four.

“Really looking forward to it,” Merino said when asked about facing France. “I think ever since the World Cup started, everyone’s been waiting for this match. I’ve been really looking forward to it. For me, we’re the two best teams in the World Cup.

“But we’re not afraid of them. I think if anyone can take on France with confidence, it’s us.”