Merino scores again for Spain: This is a reward for all the hard work I've put in.

Spain, nicknamed the "La Roja," rallied from a goal down to defeat Croatia 2-1 in the fourth round of the UEFA Nations League group stage, thanks to two goals from Merino. Merino stated that scoring for his national team was very meaningful and a reward for his hard work and dedication.

In the 17th minute, Kovacic dribbled forward and passed the ball across the goal. Matanovic received the ball, took a few steps, and fired a low shot, but it was blocked by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon. Perisic then headed the ball into the net, giving Croatia a 1-0 lead.

In the 61st minute of the second half, Yamal's cross was cleared by an opposing player, Olmo immediately passed the ball diagonally, and Merino fired a low shot into the net, helping Spain equalize the score at 1-1. In the 88th minute, Martin Zubmendi chipped the ball into the penalty area, Merino controlled the ball and fired a shot into the net, helping Spain take a 2-1 lead over Croatia.

In the end, Spain defeated Croatia 2-1 away from home, securing their qualification for the next round with a four-game winning streak.

Merino, who plays for Premier League giants Arsenal, said: "It was a very tough game, the pitch was very difficult, and the atmosphere was incredible. We knew it would be difficult to come here, especially when the opponent scored first and the fans kept cheering for them, making the game even more difficult. But this team never gives up, and we fight to the last minute. Fortunately, we finally got the victory."

“Scoring a crucial goal means a lot to me; it’s a reward for all the hard work I’ve put in. Sometimes, players put in a lot of effort but don’t necessarily get the reward, and now that reward has come in the form of a goal. I’m not only happy to score, but also happy to be able to help the team.”

In addition, Spain coach De la Fuente said, "Merino is one of the best players in the world in this position. He has the ability to play for any team and of course can play in any game."

“He is very good at recognizing the key moments in a game and has an excellent goal-scoring instinct. He often scores at important moments, so we really appreciate the attitude he has always shown.”

De la Fuente also said, "This is exactly the kind of match we expected. Croatia is a very good team with a high reputation in international football. We must keep an eye on them and gradually wear them down through the game."

“We started to take control of the game in the second half, although they still created a few threats on the counter-attack, which is normal. But I always believed that we could turn the game around.”

Image source: Internet