Spain midfielder Mikel Merino frames Sunday's final in East Rutherford as a defining test against Lionel Messi and defending champion Argentina, while backing Lamine Yamal to represent a new generation on the biggest stage.
Spain reached the World Cup 2026 semifinals with a 2-1 quarterfinal win over Belgium at SoFi Stadium, where Thibaut Courtois stood out before Mikel Merino settled a tense night late.
Charles De Ketelaere tops the July 6 World Cup 2026 Team of the Day with an 8.5 performance mark, leading a balanced eleven drawn from Belgium, Spain and Portugal across attack, midfield and defense.
Cristiano Ronaldo spoke in the mixed zone after Portugal's 1-0 World Cup round-of-16 loss to Spain, reflecting on his final tournament, three national-team titles, and an uncertain international future as Roberto Martinez departs.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino needed just six minutes and one shot to decide Spain's 1-0 World Cup 2026 Round of 16 win over Portugal, turning a late cameo into a masterclass in knockout efficiency.
Cristiano Ronaldo says he will not rush a decision on his international career after Portugal's World Cup elimination, while Roberto Martinez steps down as national team manager.
Mikel Merino headed home at 90+1 after Ferran Torres's cross as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in a tight Round of 16 tie at AT&T Stadium, ending a Iberian knockout classic on Spanish terms.
Spain beat Portugal 1-0 in Dallas as Lamine Yamal endured a muted night under tight marking, while substitute Mikel Merino scored in stoppage time to send La Roja into the quarter-finals and close Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career.
Substitute Mikel Merino scored in stoppage time as Spain edged Portugal 1-0 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's last bid for football's ultimate prize.
Timber has yet to feature since suffering a groin injury. Arteta said Merino will return to full training tomorrow, while Timber remains a step behind, though there is still hope he could play in the Champions League final.
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