JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Substitute Mikel Merino scored an injury-time winner on Monday night as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing a heartbreaking end to Cristiano Ronaldo’s illustrious World Cup career.
After 90 minutes of tense, tactical football in Dallas, their Iberian rivals looked headed for extra time before Merino scored in the first minute of added time to end one of the most eagerly awaited round of 16 matches of the tournament. Project reports
The victory keeps Spain’s bid for a second FIFA World Cup title alive, while Portugal crashes out of the competition despite a brilliant defensive display against one of the tournament favourites.
Ronaldo’s last World Cup ends in disappointment
The defeat marked the end of an era for Cristiano Ronaldo, who had already confirmed that the 2026 tournament would be his last FIFA World Cup appearance.
The 41-year-old captain once again led Portugal and was involved throughout the match, but failed to inspire Roberto Martinez’s side to another memorable knockout victory.
Ronaldo’s best chance came when he attempted an improvised back-heel shot inside the penalty area, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón handled the attempt well as Portugal struggled to create clear scoring chances.
Having survived a dramatic round of 32 match against Croatia just a few days earlier, Portugal were hoping to continue their journey. However, unlike that comeback victory, this time there was no late escape as Spain delivered the decisive blow.
Close tactical battle
The match lived up to expectations as two technically gifted teams battled for supremacy in midfield.
Spain enjoyed greater possession for much of the match thanks to the influence of Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo, while Portugal remained compact and dangerous on the counterattack with Bruno Fernandes, João Félix and Pedro Neto.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente retained the same starting eleven that comfortably defeated Austria in the previous round, while Portugal made just one change, introducing João Félix into the starting line-up alongside Ronaldo.
Although Spain controlled possession, Portugal defended resolutely with Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga and full-back Nuno Mendes frustrating the Spanish attack for long periods. fifa.com
Goalkeepers Diogo Costa and Unai Simón were also called into action on several occasions, making important saves that kept the game goalless for almost the entire match.
Merino changes the game
As the match approached extra time, Spain introduced fresh forces from the bench, with Mikel Merino replacing Pedri in a move that ultimately proved decisive.
The midfielder, who has developed a reputation for arriving late inside the penalty area, capitalized on Spain’s sustained pressure by scoring in the 90+1st minute to spark wild celebrations among Spanish players and fans.
The late breakthrough left Portugal with virtually no time to respond as Anthony Taylor finished proceedings moments later.
Merino’s goal capped an otherwise disciplined performance from Spain, who remained patient throughout the match despite Portugal’s determined resistance.
Spain’s impressive tournament continues
Spain has quietly emerged as one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
La Roja went through the group stage unbeaten before defeating Austria 3-0 in the round of 32, and continued to impress with their disciplined defensive structure and fluid attacking football.
Teenage phenom Lamine Yamal once again provided moments of brilliance, boosting the Portuguese defense with his pace and creativity, while Rodri dictated the pace from midfield.
Spain also extended their impressive defensive record, having conceded very few chances throughout the tournament and consistently controlling matches through ball possession and tactical discipline.
Portugal comes out with their heads held high
Portugal’s elimination will still leave questions about what comes next for a talented generation led by Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and João Cancelo.
Roberto Martinez’s men had shown resilience earlier in the tournament, surviving a dramatic encounter against Croatia to reach the round of 16.
Against Spain, however, he struggled to create sustained attacking pressure, despite enjoying occasional spells of possession.
An injury to Nuno Mendes in the second half further disrupted Portugal’s rhythm, with the defender being one of their best performers before being forced off.
The quarter-finals await Spain
Spain now advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the round of 16 matchup between the United States and Belgium.
With France, England, Norway and Morocco having already secured their places in the quarter-finals, Spain have strengthened their status among the main contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.
For Portugal, meanwhile, the defeat marks not only the end of the season, but also the conclusion of Ronaldo’s extraordinary World Cup journey, bringing the curtain down on one of football’s greatest international careers.
While the result went to Merino and Spain, that night will also be remembered as the moment one of football’s greatest icons left the World Cup stage for the last time.
