Arsenal’s Mikel Merino Scores Late Equalizer as Spain Draw with Netherlands in Nations League Thriller

Arsenal's Mikel Merino continues to showcase his versatility and impact on the international stage.

In the UEFA Nations League quarter-final first leg on March 20, 2025, Merino came off the bench in the final 10 minutes to score a stoppage-time equalizer, securing a 2-2 draw for Spain against the Netherlands at Rotterdam's De Kuip stadium. 

Spain initiated the scoring in the ninth minute when Nico Williams capitalized on a defensive error by Jorrel Hato, combining with Lamine Yamal and Pedri before finishing clinically. The Netherlands responded robustly, with Cody Gakpo leveling the match in the 28th minute after a setup by Justin Kluivert. Shortly after halftime, Tijjani Reijnders gave the Dutch the lead, converting Jeremie Frimpong's precise cut-back. 

The dynamics shifted in the 81st minute when Hato received a red card for a studs-up challenge on Robin le Normand, reducing the Netherlands to ten men. Seizing the advantage, Spain intensified their attacks, culminating in Merino's close-range finish in the 93rd minute after Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen parried Williams' shot into his path. 

This result extends Spain's unbeaten streak to 22 matches and positions them favorably for the return leg in Valencia on Sunday. The aggregate winner will face either Croatia or France in the semi-finals, with Croatia currently leading their tie 2-0.