Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 on Monday to book a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals and bring Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career to an emotional end.
The fiercely contested Round of 16 encounter appeared destined for extra time until Merino struck in the 91st minute to settle the Iberian derby.
Both sides adopted a cautious approach in the opening half, with defensive discipline taking precedence over attacking risk.
Spain dominated possession and created the better chances through Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal, but Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced several important saves to keep the scores level.
Portugal threatened mainly on the counter-attack, with Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix and Pedro Neto looking to exploit spaces behind the Spanish defence.
Ronaldo tested goalkeeper Unai Simón from distance, while Neto also forced the Spanish shot-stopper into action.
The game became more open after the break as both managers introduced fresh legs in search of a breakthrough.
Portugal came closest to scoring when Nuno Mendes’ powerful effort struck the crossbar after taking a slight deflection.
Spain responded by bringing on Mikel Merino and Ferran Torres, a move that ultimately proved decisive.
Deep into stoppage time, Torres reacted quickly to a well-worked free-kick before delivering the ball to Merino, who calmly slotted past Costa from close range to seal victory.
Portugal pushed forward in search of a late equaliser, but Spain’s defence stood firm.
Bernardo Silva headed narrowly wide with Portugal’s best chance in the closing stages, while Ronaldo was unable to create one final opportunity before referee Anthony Taylor blew the final whistle.
The defeat marked the end of Ronaldo’s FIFA World Cup journey after the 41-year-old confirmed before the match that the 2026 tournament would be his last.
“I hope tomorrow won’t be my last match,” Ronaldo had said ahead of kick-off.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team’s patience after securing a place in the last eight.
“We remained patient and believed the opportunity would come,” he said.
Portugal manager Roberto MartÃnez lamented the lapse in concentration that proved decisive.
“We competed well, but at this level one moment decides everything,” MartÃnez said.
Spain will face the winners of the Round of 16 clash between the United States and Belgium for a place in the semi-finals.
