It took an Arsenal player to do the business in the form of Mikel Merino but Spain are into the last eight of the World Cup after beating Portugal.
Merino pounced in injury time as he latched onto a fine through ball and coolly slotted into the bottom corner to end Portugal’s tournament and mean we may well have seen the last of Cristiano Ronaldo in major tournaments.
The Arsenal man missed much of last season through injury but has returned in time for the World Cup.
Crucially for Spain – and Arsenal – he seems as fresh as ever and his winning goal has left plenty of Gunners delighted over on social media.
Indeed, some are so delighted, that they’ve used it as a stick to beat Ronaldo with, while also praising their own man.
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Arsenal fans react to Mikel Merino’s winner for Spain v Portugal
Merino is known as being ‘Mr Versatile’ and he showed how good he can be in attacking areas with this fine finish tonight.
For Arsenal fans, it was a double-edged sword, as they were happy both for Merino, and seemingly, to see Ronaldo crash out.
One fan made a point on how many times Merino pops up when needed.
“With Trossard leaving, Mikel Merino is the most clutch Arsenal player, no?” while another fan simply referred to him as ‘Mr Clutch’.
Another Arsenal fan gave Merino the highest of praise, commenting ‘I know you’re not ready for this conversation but Merino > Mata’.
Of course, some couldn’t resist praising Merino and commenting on Ronaldo either.
“Mikel Merino sent Cristiano Ronaldo into international retirement. The beautiful game”.
While another said ‘Mikel Merino, you have my heart for life. You just retired Cristiano Ronaldo’.
There were also plenty of memes and gifs doing the rounds, suggesting Merino had either burst bubbles or put out fires, while finally, one supporter said what all Gunners fans were thinking.
“Mikel Merino sent Cristiano Ronaldo home. UP THE ARSENAL!!’
Clearly, Merino is loved by Arsenal fans and seeing him pop up and score such a crucial winner is a reminder of what Arsenal have in the ranks.
As for Ronaldo, well, this looks like the end. And while his career has been amazing, you can’t help but think that Roberto Martinez not having the guts to take him off or not even play him, has cost Portugal.
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