CFAI Mock Morning #36 Explanation part, interest, control, problem

evolsteevol

The problem makes it clear that “Merick is unlikely to have control over Lisam”, so I implied the consolidation would be valued with the equity method.
However, the explanation calculates the total consolidated shareholder’s equity as Merick’s equity + the non-controlling interest for Lisam.
I thought minority interest was part of the acquisition method, not the equity method.
Do I have this wrong, or is the right answer to value via acquistion method? The explanation does not make it clear.
Merick purchased 50% of Lisam and does not have control.