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For almost any team aiming for success, having players capable of deciding matches across every line is crucial. Spain has demonstrated they possess exactly such individuals, with Mikel Merino once again shining as a super-sub, sending the European champions into the World Cup semi-finals.
The Arsenal midfielder came off the bench for the second consecutive game to score a decisive goal, this time securing a 2-1 victory against Belgium. This triumph marks only the second time in their history that Spain has reached the tournament's semi-finals. In their previous appearance at this stage in 2010, the team went on to win the trophy.
Merino's latest heroic moment sets up a clash between Spain and France for a spot in the final, promising a fascinating encounter between Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. Unlike the Frenchman, Yamal has yet to leave his significant mark on this World Cup. Few players would relish building a reputation as a super-sub – a player who comes off the bench and changes the game's momentum – as most prefer to start.
Just a few months ago, however, Merino couldn't even imagine being part of Spain's World Cup squad. In January, he suffered an unusual foot injury – a stress fracture in a location even specialists hadn't seen before. The injury not only sidelined him from Arsenal but also cast serious doubt on his World Cup participation, as he only returned to play for the 'Gunners' a month before the tournament began.
Merino not only recovered and earned his place in the Spain squad but has also become an invaluable player on the team's journey to the semi-finals. He scored in added time to eliminate Portugal in the round of 16, then repeated his heroics against Belgium.
"Mikel is incredible," Spain coach Luis de la Fuente stated after the quarter-final victory. "He possesses many qualities. He's a player who, throughout this World Cup, could play for any team and perform excellently. For us, he embodies this idea, this model. It's a pleasure to have him, as well as the others, but especially him. We know he is consistently available and always there when needed."
He may always be there, but Merino himself feared he wouldn't be fit enough to participate in this World Cup.
"Just a few months ago, it was unthinkable for me to be here," Merino said after the win against Portugal. "Now, as I've said, I'm at the peak and enjoying one of the happiest moments of my career. I now remember all those difficult times, all the people who supported me, and everyone who pushed me to keep going when even I sometimes found it hard to believe I could be here."
Merino's exploits won't be unfamiliar to Arsenal fans, as the 30-year-old has previously delivered similar performances for the 'Gunners'.
Traditionally a midfielder, his height has also seen him deployed as a forward by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. His first time in such a role was memorable – he came off the bench to score two goals in a 2-0 victory against Leicester last February.
"Merino is one of those players who pops up in the right place at the right time in big games," said former England striker Wayne Rooney on Match of the Day.
De la Fuente added:
"He can be both the best striker and the best midfielder because of how he understands the game. He reads it perfectly. He is dedicated, generous to the team, and willing to do the necessary work."
This tournament has seen big names live up to expectations, with Argentine legend Lionel Messi, France's Kylian Mbappé, England's Harry Kane, and Norway's Erling Haaland playing leading roles for their national teams. However, Barcelona's Spanish teenage star Lamine Yamal has yet to truly shine on the world stage in the way he did during the national team's triumphant Euro 2024 campaign.
While other big names are vying for the Golden Boot, Lamine Yamal has played six matches in this World Cup and scored only one goal.
At times during the tournament, he made incorrect decisions, opting to shoot in situations where a pass would have been a better option. However, this doesn't mean he hasn't contributed, as his dribbling and speed help create space for players like Merino.
Commentary by Gary Rose for bbc.com
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