Spain advance with dramatic late winner
Mikel Merino's late strike secured a 1-0 victory for Spain over Portugal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16, booking their place in the quarter-finals. The match, played on 6 July 2026, ended Portugal's campaign and is expected to trigger Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football, according to Reuters.
Merino the hero in tense encounter
The decisive moment came in the 87th minute when Merino, a Real Sociedad midfielder, connected with a cross to fire past the Portuguese goalkeeper. Spain dominated possession throughout but struggled to break down a disciplined Portugal defense until the late breakthrough.
Ronaldo's likely farewell
Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored over 130 goals for Portugal, is anticipated to announce his retirement from international duty following the defeat. The 41-year-old had hinted that this World Cup might be his last. Portugal failed to replicate their Euro 2016 success, exiting in the knockout stages.
Spain's quarter-final path
Spain will now face either Morocco or France in the quarter-finals. Their victory extends a strong tournament run, having topped their group unbeaten. Coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team's resilience, saying, "We believed until the end, and Mikel's goal was a reward for our persistence."
Match statistics and impact
Spain registered 68% possession and 14 shots to Portugal's 6. The win marks Spain's third quarter-final appearance in the last four World Cups. Portugal, meanwhile, will begin a new era without their iconic captain.
