Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, as Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time winner ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career in heartbreaking fashion.
Both teams entered the all-Iberian showdown determined to settle qualification within 90 minutes, producing an entertaining contest filled with attacking football and end-to-end action.
Spain created the first clear opportunity in the eighth minute through Mikel Oyarzabal, who fired wide after a slick passing move involving Lamine Yamal, Álex Baena, and Dani Olmo.
Portugal responded moments later when Cristiano Ronaldo tested Unai Simón, but the Spanish goalkeeper gathered comfortably.
Spain continued to dictate much of the attacking play. Yamal forced an excellent save from Diogo Costa in the 16th minute, before Baena’s follow-up effort was also denied by the outstanding Portuguese goalkeeper.
Despite Spain’s control, Portugal produced dangerous moments of their own.
In the 37th minute, Pedro Neto delivered a pinpoint cross to João Félix, whose header found Ronaldo inside the penalty area, but Simón reacted brilliantly to deny Portugal’s captain.
The second half remained evenly contested, with both sides showing greater caution as the knockout tension intensified.
Portugal nearly struck in the 51st minute after Vitinha released Neto down the right flank, but Ronaldo was unable to connect with the low cross arriving at the far post.
Spain continued to rely heavily on the pace and creativity of Yamal, although Portugal’s disciplined defence repeatedly shut down the teenage sensation.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Spain found the decisive breakthrough.
In the 93rd minute, Ferran Torres slipped an intelligent pass through Portugal’s defensive line for Merino, who timed his run perfectly before calmly placing his finish beyond Costa.
It was another iconic late goal from the Arsenal midfielder, who has built a reputation for producing decisive moments in major tournaments.
The victory continues Spain’s impressive World Cup campaign, with Luis de la Fuente’s side maintaining their reputation as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
Since lifting the UEFA Euro 2024 title, La Roja have continued to showcase a balanced combination of defensive solidity and attacking quality as they pursue a second FIFA World Cup crown, their first since triumphing in South Africa in 2010.
Credit Photo : RFEF
