Mikel Merino stated that the World Cup favorite, Spain, is currently “processing their disappointment” following an unexpected draw with the underdog team, Cape Verde, in their opening match.
In a remarkable performance, World Cup newcomers Cape Verde managed to hold Spain to a goalless draw in Atlanta, with goalkeeper Vozinha earning the MVP award, while Lamine Yamal was only able to come off the bench. The result, combined with draws from both Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, left Group H wide open.
Spain has returned to their training camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to gear up for their critical match against Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
“Each player handles disappointment in their own way,” Merino shared with reporters during a lengthy news conference on Tuesday. “Some prefer to review the game immediately, while others choose to disconnect. It’s a time to process the letdown of not securing all three points. We’re already focusing on areas we need to enhance.”
When pressed to clarify his use of the term “mourning,” which implied that the team was struggling with the result, Merino elaborated, “Maybe I didn’t convey my thoughts clearly; I was attempting a metaphor. Nobody has passed away. It’s not mourning in the literal sense, but sometimes losses can feel similar. When you’re fiercely competitive and don’t achieve your goals, you come home and may not even want to talk to your family. That’s why I likened it to mourning.”
Merino also referenced the defending champions, Argentina, who began their 2022 World Cup campaign with a loss to Saudi Arabia before ultimately winning the tournament in Qatar.
“Many exceptional stories have begun with disappointing games,” he noted. “Just like the last world champions, who lost to Saudi Arabia in 2022 and went on to triumph… It’s early in the tournament, and we have plenty of opportunities to improve.”
The Arsenal midfielder also cited Spain’s 2010 World Cup winners, who lost their first match to Switzerland.
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“The golden generation of 2010 also experienced a loss in their opening match, faced considerable scrutiny, but managed to rebound,” Merino remarked. “They serve as a valuable example to follow and can inspire us.”
With five days remaining to prepare for the match against Saudi Arabia, Spain is hopeful that players such as Yamal and Nico Williams will regain their full match fitness.
“After a loss, the immediate desire is to get back on the pitch to erase the bitter taste in your mouth,” Merino reflected. “We have time to think it over now, which presents a mental challenge.”
“Lamine appears to be doing well; I was just with him, and he was his usual cheerful self. He hasn’t lost that vibrant energy that defines him. The [younger players] bring us enthusiasm and spark, while we [veterans] provide the necessary calm at times. That’s what I appreciate about this squad; it’s well-balanced.”