Midfielder Mikel Merino has insisted Spain knew they were better than Argentina following a 1-0 win in the World Cup final.
La Roja overcame a stubborn and resolute Argentina side to lift their second World Cup trophy in their history.
Having entered the tournament as one of the favorites, Spain lived up to the billing and made light work of their opponents throughout the tournament.
Merino contributed to Spain reaching the final. He came on as a late substitute to score the winning goals against Portugal and Belgium in the round of 16 and quarterfinal, respectively.
After beating tournament favorites France in the semifinal, the Spaniards became favorites to win the trophy at MetLife Stadium.
The Arsenal star believed his teammates came into the game believing they were better than Argentina.
“We knew we were a better footballing side than Argentina,” Merino told ITV:
“Unbelievable. It’s the perfect moment for us. We are such a golden generation with these young players that give everything they have for this country, for these fans.
“Luckily, we got the trophy today. It was a game about concentration. We knew we were a better team in terms of football.
“The pitch was dry. It was a difficult game because they are a very, very competitive side and they know how to make the game difficult for you.
“I think the team was outstanding today and we deserve it.
“When you are facing a low block and you have a team that is defending in its own box, you have to attack the box with bodies on the line and then control the transitions.
“We have very good players that can cross the ball, big threats in the box, and the old-school way of scoring goals, and we did it.”
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