Mikel Merino has once again emerged as an unlikely hero for Spain, coming off the bench to score a decisive goal in their 2-1 World Cup quarter-final victory against Belgium. The Arsenal midfielder's late winner sent the European champions into the semi-finals for only the second time, matching their 2010 run when they went on to win the tournament. His heroics set up a clash with France and a highly anticipated showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, who has yet to make his mark at this World Cup. Merino's journey to this point has been remarkable, as just a few months ago he could not envisage being part of the squad due to a rare stress fracture in his foot. The injury ruled him out of action for Arsenal and left his World Cup hopes in doubt until he returned just a month before the tournament. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente praised Merino as "incredible," noting his ability to interpret the game perfectly and serve as the standard for the team's model. Merino's role as a super sub is familiar to Arsenal fans, where manager Mikel Arteta has utilized the 30-year-old midfielder as a striker due to his height. Former England striker Wayne Rooney described Merino as "one of those players who arrives at the right time, at the right moment in big games." Merino himself reflected on his journey, saying the fact of being at the World Cup was "unthinkable" a few months ago, and he is now enjoying one of the happiest moments of his career.
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