Spanish footballer Mikel Merino became the first in the history of the FIFA World Cup to score multiple winning goals in playoff matches as a substitute, reports UNN citing ESPN.
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Merino also became the first player in the last 60 years to score two winning goals after the 87th minute in World Cup playoff matches. He scored the winning goal in the 88th minute against Belgium and led Spain to a 2:1 victory, advancing them to the semifinals against France.
This was the second time this week that Merino became Spain's hero. He also scored the winning goal in the 91st minute against Portugal in the round of 16 on Monday, coming on as a substitute in the 85th minute.
"I don't even know what to say, I can't believe it myself," said Merino to reporters after the match. "Having done it once, I thought it wouldn't happen again for a long time — and here we are again."
"I believe in luck, but I don't think this is luck. It's about being ready when you step onto the field. So don't be surprised if I score in the last few minutes, because when I come on, I am ready," he said.
"But it's surreal — coming off the bench and helping the team score in two consecutive matches. My teammates kept telling me: 'You'll score again.' I always want to come on to help the team improve and contribute as much as I can," Merino stated.
This is the third time Merino has scored a winning goal in a major tournament for the Spanish national team. He also scored the winning goal in the 119th minute against Germany in the quarterfinals of the last European Championship.
"I doubt it will happen again," he added. "We'll see what happens. We still have two matches [to victory] at the World Cup. I hope we succeed."
"I am so lucky and privileged to experience this every day with my parents, aunts, and uncles. I am in a very happy moment of my life."
Merino joined Álvaro Morata and Fernando Morientes as the only Spaniards to score multiple goals as a substitute at a World Cup — each scoring two goals.