Spain vs Portugal delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time winner secured a 1-0 victory for Spain in Dallas. The match appeared destined for extra time until the Spanish substitute timed his run perfectly to score in the 91st minute, ending Portugal’s campaign and possibly bringing Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey to a close. Spain vs Portugal was a tactical battle for long spells before Merino finally separated the two European heavyweights.
Spain vs Portugal remained deadlocked until stoppage time
The contest offered few clear-cut opportunities as both teams neutralised each other’s attacking threats. Spain enjoyed more possession and tested Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa through Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena, while Cristiano Ronaldo came closest for Portugal with an effort that forced Unai Simon into action.
Portugal also struck the woodwork when Nuno Mendes’ deflected strike crashed against the crossbar during the first half. Despite the chances, Spain vs Portugal remained goalless entering injury time.
The decisive moment arrived when Merino, who had entered as a substitute, combined with Ferran Torres before calmly finishing beyond Costa to hand Spain a place in the last eight.
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Ronaldo’s World Cup journey sees the last dance
The defeat may represent the end of an era. Cristiano Ronaldo completed the full 90 minutes but was unable to inspire Portugal to another comeback. The veteran forward, who has represented Portugal at multiple World Cups, walked off with disappointment as Spain celebrated a famous victory.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary international career has reached its final chapter. Since his Portugal debut in 2003 at age 18, the iconic forward has completely rewritten football history. Acting as his country’s longtime captain and ultimate talisman, Ronaldo led the nation to its first major international honours, capturing the UEFA Euro 2016 title and the 2019 UEFA Nations League trophy.
Beyond his prolific scoring, Ronaldo has also provided 46 assists for his teammates, bringing his total international goal contributions to an astonishing 192. His major tournament statistics include a record 14 goals at the European Championships and 11 goals across six FIFA World Cups.
The 41-year-old superstar has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America will mark his final international tournament. He continues to shatter records, extending his world-best men’s international tallies to an astonishing 146 goals in 232 appearances. During this tournament, Ronaldo also became the first male footballer ever to score in six different World Cup editions. He further solidified his unparalleled legacy by cementing his place as the oldest outfield player to play and score in the tournament’s knockout stages. As the curtain closes on his historic 23-year international career, Ronaldo leaves an indelible mark on global sports
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez’s future is also expected to come under scrutiny after another major tournament exit.
Spain, meanwhile, continued their impressive defensive record, progressing to the quarterfinals without conceding a goal in the tournament.
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Spain prepare for quarterfinal challenge
Spain vs Portugal highlighted the depth of Luis de la Fuente’s squad, with substitutes playing a decisive role. Merino’s impact from the bench underlined Spain’s ability to change matches even when their attacking rhythm was restricted.
The Spanish side will now carry significant momentum into the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the United States versus Belgium.
With young stars such as Yamal, experienced leaders like Rodri and match-winners such as Merino, Spain continue to strengthen their credentials as one of the favourites to lift the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy.
