Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez congratulated the men's national football team on their qualification to the quarterfinals of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, stating that they have proven that "talent, teamwork, and ambition can take you very far."
Last-Minute Victory Over Portugal
A late, 91st-minute strike from substitute Mikel Merino secured a narrow 1-0 win over Portugal in the round of 16 clash, sending the Cristiano Ronaldo-led side out of the competition in front of a packed Dallas crowd on Monday.
In a post on X, Sanchez wrote: "To the quarterfinals! You've once again proven that talent, teamwork, and ambition can take you very far. The whole country is with you. Let's go, Spain!"
Match Highlights
The match was filled with chances for both sides, but substitutes Ferran Torres and Merino combined for the decisive goal in stoppage time, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey spanning six editions.
Spain dominated possession with 55% and had eight shots compared to Portugal's five, along with 11 touches in the opposition box versus Portugal's four. The 2010 champions showed a slightly better performance throughout the match.
Key moments included Cristiano Ronaldo's acrobatic effort saved by Unai Simon, Nuno Mendes' shot crashing into the crossbar, and Bruno Fernandes' volley hitting the side netting. In stoppage time, Fabian Ruiz found Ferran Torres, who slipped the ball to Merino for a clinical finish into the bottom corner, sealing Spain's victory.
Impact on Portugal and Ronaldo
Bernardo Silva missed a massive chance to equalize, and a late free kick from Portugal missed the goal by miles, sending Portugal out of the competition and ending Ronaldo's World Cup campaign. The win propels Spain into the quarterfinals with strong national support.
