Spain kept their FIFA World Cup 2026 title hopes alive after defeating Portugal 1-0 in a tense Round of 16 clash on Monday. A dramatic injury-time goal from Mikel Merino settled the contest, sending Spain into the quarter-finals and ending Portugal's campaign.
For much of the match, neither side managed to break the deadlock despite enjoying spells of possession.
With extra time looking increasingly likely, Spain found the decisive moment in stoppage time as Merino finished from close range following a cross from Ferran Torres.
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The Portugal vs Spain fixture had been one of the most anticipated matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage, featuring two European heavyweights and some of football's biggest stars.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo searched for a breakthrough throughout the contest but was unable to guide his side past Spain's disciplined defence.
Christiano Ronaldo World Cup dream ended
The defeat also marks the end of Portugal's FIFA World Cup 2026 journey.
"I'm sad to leave the World Cup this way," Ronaldo said after bringing the curtain down on a World Cup career that spanned two decades.
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"It was my last World Cup, yes. But as for the rest, there's time to think, to be with my family, and not say things in the heat of the moment," he added.
Spain’s journey continues
Spain, meanwhile, continues its impressive run in the tournament and remains among the favourites to lift the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy.
The team's organised defence and patience in attack ultimately proved enough to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Spain is going up next against Belgium in the quarter-final match scheduled on 11th July.
