Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-finals after defeating Portugal 1-0 in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter at Dallas Stadium. Substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal deep into stoppage time, ending Portugal’s World Cup campaign and marking the final FIFA World Cup appearance of legendary captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Spain will now meet Belgium in the quarter-finals after Belgium secured a convincing victory over the United States.
Ronaldo’s Final World Cup
Ahead of the match, Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed during his pre-match press conference that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his last appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner once again led Portugal into battle, hoping to guide his nation one step closer to the only major international trophy missing from his illustrious career.
Spain Dominate Early Possession
Spain controlled much of the opening half, enjoying nearly 59% possession during the first 20 minutes and testing Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa on several occasions. Costa produced a series of excellent saves to keep the match level.
Portugal responded strongly as the half progressed. In the 37th minute, both João Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo came close to breaking the deadlock, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón denied both efforts.
Moments before halftime, Nuno Mendes unleashed a powerful long-range strike that crashed against the post, with Portugal coming agonisingly close to taking the lead.
With both sides registering three shots on target, the match remained finely balanced at the interval.
Merino Delivers the Decisive Blow
The second half continued at a high tempo, with both teams creating opportunities.
Portugal suffered a setback in the 56th minute when Nuno Mendes was forced off through injury and replaced by Nélson Semedo.
In the closing stages, Rafael Leão created a promising chance for Bruno Fernandes, but Portugal failed to find the finishing touch.
Just when the contest appeared destined for extra time, Spain struck in dramatic fashion. During 90+1 minutes, substitute Mikel Merino converted a cross from Ferran Torres, scoring the only goal of the match and sending Spain into the last eight.
Spain March On
Spain’s defensive record remains outstanding, as they are yet to concede a goal in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The victory sends La Roja into the quarter-finals, where they will face Belgium in another highly anticipated European showdown.
End of an Era for Cristiano Ronaldo
Portugal’s elimination also brought the curtain down on Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable FIFA World Cup journey.
The Portuguese captain finished the 2026 tournament with three goals in five matches, taking his overall FIFA World Cup record to:
- 6 FIFA World Cup appearances
- 25 matches
- 11 goals
- Portugal’s all-time leading World Cup scorer
From his debut in 2006 to his farewell in 2026, Ronaldo leaves behind one of the greatest international careers in football history.
Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live
Fans in India can continue watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on ZEE5, with commentary available in Malayalam, English, Hindi, and Bangla.
