Mikel Merino's 'clever play' sends Spain to World Cup quarterfinals with late goal vs. Portugal

Spain has advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals after a narrow 1-0 victory over Portugal, decided by a late goal from substitute Mikel Merino. The Spanish team, considered a strong contender for the title, secured their passage to the next round despite facing some challenges during the match.

The game-winning goal came from an unexpected source just six minutes after Merino entered the field. While many players had chances, it was the midfielder who ultimately broke the deadlock. Spain dominated possession with 56% compared to Portugal's 44% and had clearer opportunities, but the match remained scoreless until Merino's intervention.

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Spain is already in the quarterfinals of the World Cup. They beat Portugal at the end by 1-0 and barely celebrated. Actually, they celebrated normally, as if they had expected to achieve this ticket from the start.

Merino's decisive moment began when he drew a foul from Portugal's Bernardo Silva on the left flank. Seizing the opportunity, Merino quickly took the free-kick, initiating a swift passing sequence. He received the ball back and, moving vertically towards the area, played it to Fabián Ruiz. The ball moved through Rodri and Ferrán Torres before finding Merino, who had positioned himself like a center forward, to finish with a shot to the near post.

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Many times games are decided by details. Spain had had the ball more time... and had counted on the clearest chances, but the decisive goal... was scored by Mikel Merino, who had entered just six minutes before.

Coach Luis de la Fuente praised Merino's immediate impact, noting how players often take time to adjust to the game's rhythm after coming on as a substitute, especially in a high-stakes World Cup match. Merino, however, demonstrated the focus and concentration desired by any coach, not only participating as a link in offense but also becoming the creator and finisher of a memorable goal.

The victory ensures Spain's progression in the tournament, setting up their next challenge in the quarterfinals.

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And then he starred in the 'clever play' of the afternoon, accompanied by a movement worthy of a footballer focused and concentrated on winning the World Cup.