Mikel Merino reflects on injury after Spain winner, thought he would not make the World Cup | OneFootball

Mikel Merino fired Spain into the World Cup quarter-finals with a late Round of 16 winner against Portugal in Dallas. El Periódico Mediterráneo highlighted his growing habit of decisive interventions for Spain.

As the tie edged towards extra time, the midfielder swept in a low left-footer for 1-0. Two years earlier he had leapt in the 119th minute to head out hosts Germany in Stuttgart at Euro 2024.

This time he did not need to climb, he shaped himself and beat Diogo Costa at the near post. He later said you do not get used to moments like this, calling it a rush to lift people at home after such a hard-fought match.

His celebration carried personal release after an injury that initially put his World Cup hopes in doubt. He spoke of ups and downs, thought he might not make the tournament, and called the night a reward for work and the backing of loved ones.

Luis de la Fuente again leaned on Merino’s timing and reading of play. The coach asked him to play as a 10 and help team-mates, Merino said he knows what is wanted and felt fortunate to score.

Spain advance with a group that has learned to close games in the final minutes, and Merino typifies that edge.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo