Mikel Merino’s last-gasp winner for Spain in opposition to Germany within the Euro 2024 quarter-finals will undoubtedly go down as one of many midfielder’s profession highlights.
The Actual Sociedad man headed dwelling an excellent end within the dying moments of extra-time to knock out the hosts and proceed his nation’s glowing run as they bid for a fourth European Championship crown.
Unbeknownst to many, although, the purpose – and subsequent celebration – meant much more to Merino than it first appeared. The midfielder celebrated in uncommon model by circling the nook flag earlier than clenching his fists and roaring into the Stuttgart sky.
However older footage quickly emerged on-line of his father, Angel Merino, performing precisely the identical routine on the identical venue 33 years earlier.
Merino Snr was additionally a midfielder and loved a profitable profession on the high stage of Spanish soccer, his longest spell coming with Osasuna between 1988 and 1994.
And it was for the Pamplona membership that he scored in a 3-2 win away to Stuttgart within the second leg of a UEFA Cup second-round conflict in November 1991.
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Footage from the match reveals Merino celebrating his purpose by circling the nook flag and punching his fists within the air.
And 33 years later, his son Mikel carried out an similar routine to mark his career-defining strike in opposition to the Germans in touching style.
It was Merino junior’s second purpose for his nation and despatched them into final 4, the place they may face France .
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