The World Cup is over, the confetti has settled and the biggest stars of international football are heading back to their clubs. For Premier League fans, however, the action is far from over.

Spain's Mikel Merino said La Roja deserved to lift the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy after defeating Argentina in the final.

Spanish super-sub Mikel Merino said Friday that neutralising the threat of Lionel Messi will be a "huge challenge" as La Roja prepare for their World Cup final showdown against Argentina.

France vs Spain Score, FIFA World Cup 2026 Updates: Spain outclassed France 2-0 in the first semi-final of the World Cup, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro.

Mikel Merino, who smashed in the World Cup quarter-final winner against Belgium in the 88th minute on Friday, said it was "surreal" to have scored a late winner in two straight knockout games for Spain.

Mikel Merino scored his second goal of the tournament when he pounced on a rebound from Pau Cubarsi's effort, which was spilled by Belgium backup goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Spain beat Belgium 2-1 on Friday to move into a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against France after a hectic game decided by a goalkeeping error from Senne Lammens.