Mikel Merino continued his impressive influence for Spain by scoring the final goal as the world champions beat the Czech Republic 3-1 in Oviedo on Saturday night.It was also a significant evening for Arsenal representation, with David Raya starting in goal before both Merino and Martin Zubimendi were introduced during the second half.According to BBC Sport, Spain’s victory extended their winning run to ten matches and maintained their perfect start to the UEFA Nations League with nine points from their opening three Group A3 fixtures.Raya starts as Spain take early controlLamine Yamal needed only six minutes to put Spain ahead, curling an excellent finish beyond the Czech goalkeeper after finding space around the edge of the box.Rodri doubled the advantage after 35 minutes, leaving Spain seemingly in complete control heading towards half-time.Raya, who had remained on the bench when Spain beat England 3-2 at Wembley in their opening Nations League fixture, was given his opportunity from the start this time.The Arsenal goalkeeper was beaten in the 69th minute when Jiri Slama fired low to reduce the deficit and briefly give the visitors hope of a comeback.By then, Merino had already entered the action, replacing Pedri two minutes earlier.(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)Merino provides the finishing touch for SpainZubimendi joined his Arsenal teammate on the pitch in the 77th minute when he replaced Rodri, meaning all three Gunners selected by Luis de la Fuente featured during the evening.The Czech Republic’s chances suffered another blow when Ladislav Krejci was dismissed after receiving his second yellow card.Then came Merino’s moment.The midfielder reacted to a loose ball inside the area in the 89th minute and converted to make it 3-1, ensuring there would be no late drama.It is another positive moment for a player who recently revealed how serious his injury problems had been before returning to feature for Spain at the World Cup.Spain now remain three points clear of England at the top of Group A3 and travel to Croatia on Tuesday knowing another victory would secure their place in the Nations League quarter-finals.For Arsenal, seeing Merino on the scoresheet and all three Spanish Gunners getting valuable minutes, and hopefully returning home fit, can only be welcome news.How important do you think Merino has become for both Arsenal and Spain? And are you pleased to see Raya getting another opportunity for the world champions after being an unused sub at the World Cup? Let us know in the comments._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsMerino on target as Arsenal trio help Spain maintain perfect start4 October 2026, 10:30How would Arsenal vote if Man City faced Premier League expulsion? – Opinion4 October 2026, 9:00Opinion: Lewis-Skelly’s growth must not be sacrificed for Bruno Guimaraes3 October 2026, 23:00The post Merino on target as Arsenal trio help Spain maintain perfect start appeared first on Just Arsenal News.