Every successful team needs reliable match-winners, and Spain continues to prove they possess that quality as Mikel Merino delivered another decisive performance as a substitute to guide the European champions into the World Cup semi-finals.

The Arsenal midfielder came off the bench for the second consecutive match to net the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory over Belgium.

Merino remains one of only two players to score a winning goal for Spain in the knockout stages of the World Cup as a substitute, having achieved the feat against Portugal in the last 16 and now against Belgium.

This victory moves Spain into the final four of the tournament for only the second time in their history. They will face France on Tuesday with a spot in the final on the line.

“Mikel is incredible,” Spain manager Luis de la Fuente remarked following the quarter-final win. “He has many qualities. He is a player who could have played for any team throughout this World Cup and performed brilliantly.”

“For us, he represents our model and our identity. It is a pleasure to have him—and others, but especially him. We know that, without fail, he is always there when we need him.”

Merino’s impact will look familiar to Arsenal supporters, as the 30-year-old has produced similar moments of brilliance for the Gunners.

“Merino is just one of those players who arrives at the right time and the right moment in big games,” former England striker Wayne Rooney said on Match of the Day.