Mikel Merino's Late Goal Sends Spain to Euro Semifinals
Merino's Goal the Third-Latest Winner in EURO History
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Mikel Merino scored the third-latest winning goal in EURO history after 118 minutes and 52 seconds, sending Spain into the semifinals of the European Championship with a 2-1 win over hosts Germany.
The Real Sociedad midfielder, who hails from Pamplona just 82 km away, had only been on the pitch for a few minutes when he headed home the winning goal in the penultimate minute of extra time.
"It was an incredible moment," Merino said. "I couldn't believe it when the ball went in. I just wanted to help the team win, and I'm so happy that I was able to do that."
Merino's goal was a dramatic end to a tense and evenly matched match. Spain took the lead in the first half through Alvaro Morata, but Germany equalized in the second half through Thomas Müller.
The match went to extra time, and it looked like it was headed for a penalty shootout. But with just seconds remaining, Merino popped up to head home the winner.
"It's a dream come true," Merino said. "I've always wanted to play in a major tournament for Spain, and now we're in the semifinals. It's an incredible feeling."
Spain will now face either Portugal or the Czech Republic in the semifinals. Merino is confident that Spain can go all the way and win the tournament.
"We have a great team with a lot of quality," Merino said. "We're all fighting for each other, and we're all determined to win the Euros. We know it will be tough, but we believe in ourselves."
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