Yamal is still finding his rhythm in the game'
Gary Rose
BBC Sport journalist
This has been a tournament where the big names have stepped up with Argentina great Lionel Messi, France's Kylian Mbappe, England's Harry Kane and Erling Haaland of Norway all playing leading roles for their respective teams.
However Spain and Barcelona's teenage star - Lamine Yamal - is yet to truly light up the stage to the extent he did during the national team's successful Euro 2024 campaign.
While the other names are battling it out for the Golden Boot, Lamine Yamal has played six games at this World Cup and scored just one goal.
At times at the tournament he has made the wrong decision, opting to shoot when a pass would have been better, but that is not to say he is not contributing as his dribbling ability and pace helps to make space for players like Merino.
"You'll have Lionel Messi making the wrong decisions at times," said former England captain Wayne Rooney on BBC TV.
"Let's remember he came into this tournament injured, so he is still finding his rhythm in the game. Where he is effective is when he takes the ball, he attracts players towards him, and he creates space for his team-mates."