Mikel Merino's stoppage-time strike sealed a 1-0 victory for Spain over Portugal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 on Monday, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth and final World Cup campaign in tears. The 41-year-old forward, playing in his last World Cup, was visibly emotional after the match at the Stadium 974 in Doha.
Ronaldo's Final World Cup Ends in Heartbreak
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, leaves the tournament without a World Cup title or even a final appearance. His best performance with Portugal came in 2006, when they reached the semifinals and finished fourth. Despite the disappointment, Ronaldo expressed pride in his efforts. "Well, it's normal, sad, to leave the World Cup like this," Ronaldo said through an interpreter. "But, as I said yesterday at the press conference, I gave it my all, I gave my best. And I leave with a clear conscience."
Ronaldo's World Cup record includes 11 goals in 27 matches, making him one of the tournament's all-time great performers. He and Argentina's Lionel Messi are the only men to have played in six World Cups. Ronaldo also scored 14 goals in 30 European Championship appearances, leading Portugal to the 2016 title.
Spain's Late Winner Stuns Portugal
The match was tightly contested, with both teams creating chances. Spain dominated possession but struggled to break down Portugal's defense. In the 90+2nd minute, Merino rose highest to head home a cross from Dani Olmo, sending Spanish fans into delirium. Portugal had no time to respond, and the final whistle confirmed their elimination.
Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez praised his team's effort but acknowledged Spain's quality. "We gave everything, but football can be cruel," Martinez said. "Spain took their chance, and we didn't. That's the difference at this level."
Ronaldo's Legacy Secure Despite World Cup Void
Ronaldo insisted that his legacy with Portugal remains intact, citing the 2016 European Championship as a career highlight. "Before Cristiano, Portugal hadn't won any titles," he said. "So, I'm happy. The truth is that the biggest title I won with the national team was in 2016, which for me has the same significance as the World Cup, honestly."
Ronaldo is under contract with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League for one more season. He has not confirmed whether this will be his final season as a professional, but he hinted at retirement. "I have time to think, be with my family, not make decisions in the heat of the moment and move on with life," he said.
What's Next for Portugal and Spain?
Portugal will now regroup without Ronaldo, who has been the face of the national team for two decades. Young talents like João Félix and Rafael Leão are expected to lead the next generation. Spain advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the match between Germany and Switzerland.
Spain's victory extends their unbeaten run in the tournament to four matches. Coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team's resilience. "We believed until the end, and the players executed perfectly," de la Fuente said. "Merino's goal was a reward for our persistence."
