Head coach of the Spanish national team Luis de la Fuente shared his emotions after a minimal victory over Portugal (1:0) in the 1/8 finals of the World Cup 2026. The coach recognized the greatest contribution of Mikel Merino, who, as a replacement, brought the team a ticket to the quarterfinals.

" Having won the European Championship for us, we will always be charged when it is most needed. He is one of the greatest leaders of the world in his position.

We have on our list of reserves football players that would have come out of the starting warehouse in any other team. I praise the decision, thinking only about those that are best for the team. I'm not at all keen on adventures. Mickel is very happy to be there where ever he is.

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The Spanish captain also expressed his gratitude to the captain of the Portuguese national team, Cristiano Ronaldo, for which he won the world championship, becoming the rest of his career.

“We are getting sleepy every hour, and I am a great supporter of your values, of what you stand for, of your focus on sports. I respect that Cristiano is a butt for young people. If we have the opportunity to stay together, we will agree on mutual respect,” said de la Fuente.

In the quarterfinals of the World Cup 2026, the Spanish team will compete with Belgium. Planning duel for 10 days.