PersonES

Mikel Merino

Spanish midfielder who scored the 91st-minute winner against Portugal.

Last refreshed: 7 July 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic

Key Question

After two decisive knockout goals in two years, is Merino Spain's most reliable big-game player?

Timeline for Mikel Merino

#3910 Jul

Scored the 88th-minute winner as a substitute

2026 FIFA World Cup: Merino winner sends Spain past Belgium

#365 Jul

Scored the winning goal in the 91st minute

2026 FIFA World Cup: Merino's late goal sends Ronaldo home

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Common Questions

What club does Mikel Merino play for?

Arsenal FC, having joined from Real Sociedad for £31.6 million in August 2024.Source: Arsenal FC

How did Mikel Merino score the winner against Portugal?

He converted a Ferran Torres pass in the 91st minute to give Spain a 1-0 win in the last 16 on 6 July 2026.Source: event

Why is Mikel Merino known for scoring decisive goals?

He scored the extra-time winner against Germany at Euro 2024 and Spain's 91st-minute winner against Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, both in knockout football.Source: Wikipedia

Background

Merino scored Spain's 91st-minute winner against Portugal, assisted by Ferran Torres, in a match widely reported as Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance. It was his latest big-occasion goal, following his extra-time winner against Germany at Euro 2024.

The Arsenal midfielder joined the club from Real Sociedad for £31.6 million in August 2024, having previously played for Newcastle United and Real Sociedad. He won the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad in 2019/20 and the Premier League with Arsenal in 2025/26.

A key figure in Spain's Euro 2024 and 2023 Nations League triumphs, Merino has become Spain's go-to man in knockout football, delivering decisive late goals in major tournaments in successive years.