Spain have secured their place in the World Cup semi-finals, defeating Belgium 2-1, with Mikel Merino once again emerging as a crucial player from the bench. The Arsenal midfielder scored the decisive goal, sending the European champions into the last four of the tournament for only the second time in their history. Their previous semi-final appearance in 2010 culminated in them lifting the trophy.
Merino’s latest heroics set up a highly anticipated clash with France for a spot in the final. This upcoming match is also expected to feature a significant showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, though Yamal has yet to fully make his mark in this World Cup campaign.
Merino’s Impact as a Super Sub
While many footballers prefer starting roles, Merino has embraced his reputation as a ‘super sub,’ consistently making an impact when introduced. His journey to the World Cup squad was uncertain just months ago, following an unusual foot injury in January—a stress fracture that sidelined him from Arsenal and cast doubt on his participation in the tournament. He was only able to return to action for the Gunners a month before the World Cup began.
Despite these setbacks, Merino not only earned his place in the Spain squad but has proven to be an invaluable asset. He scored in stoppage time to eliminate Portugal in the last 16 and replicated this performance against Belgium. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised Merino, stating, “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 further described Merino as “the standard of this idea, of this model,” highlighting his commitment and generosity.
Merino himself reflected on his challenging path, saying after the Portugal win, “The fact of being here a few months ago was unthinkable. Now I am, as I said before, at the highest point, enjoying one of the happiest moments of my career.” He acknowledged the support he received during difficult times, which helped him believe in his return.
Arsenal fans are familiar with Merino’s ability to deliver in crucial moments. Traditionally a midfielder, his height has led Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to deploy him as a striker on occasion. A notable instance was when he scored twice against Leicester in a 2-0 victory in February last year after coming off the bench. Former England striker Wayne Rooney commented on Merino’s knack for arriving “at the right time, at the right moment in big games.” De la Fuente added that Merino’s understanding of the game allows him to excel as both a striker and a midfielder.
Yamal’s Contribution and Upcoming Challenge
This World Cup has seen prominent players like Lionel Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland take leading roles for their respective teams. However, Spain and Barcelona‘s teenage star, Lamine Yamal, has not yet reached the heights of his Euro 2024 campaign. Despite playing six games, he has scored only one goal, and at times has opted to shoot when a pass might have been more effective.
Nevertheless, Yamal’s contributions extend beyond goals and assists. His dribbling ability and pace are instrumental in creating space for teammates like Merino. Rooney noted that even Messi can make incorrect decisions at times, and reminded that Yamal entered the tournament injured, still finding his rhythm. Yamal’s effectiveness lies in his ability to draw defenders, thereby opening up opportunities for others.
Spain’s defence has been robust, with Belgium’s goal being the first they have conceded in this World Cup. However, their backline faces a significant test against a high-scoring France team led by Mbappe. This means Yamal and the rest of Spain’s attack will need to perform at their best to alleviate pressure on the defence. Former Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta expressed confidence in Spain’s control of the game and quick ball recovery, noting that Yamal, despite not having goals or assists, is very influential and has more to offer the team.
In the match against Belgium, Merino was introduced as a substitute in the 86th minute and scored from his second touch, capitalising on a rebound after Belgium’s backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled a shot from Pau Cubarsi. Lammens, a Manchester United keeper, had entered the game in the 71st minute after veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois left with an apparent thigh injury. Earlier in the match, Fabian Ruiz scored Spain’s opening goal in the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium in the 41st minute, ending Spain’s record streak of 649 minutes without conceding a goal at the World Cup.
The upcoming semi-final against France is scheduled for Tuesday in Dallas.
Source: bbc.com