Mikel Merino’s Extra-Time Heroics Send Spain Past Portugal; End Ronaldo’s World Cup Journey

Spain earned a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after Mikel Merino struck deep into extra time to hand his side a narrow 1-0 victory over Portugal at Dallas Stadium.

The Spanish side will now face either the United States or Belgium in the last eight at Los Angeles Stadium.

Portugal’s elimination also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s appearances at the FIFA World Cup.

The veteran forward had confirmed before the match that the 2026 tournament would be his final World Cup. He finishes his career at the competition with 11 goals in 27 matches and the unique achievement of scoring in six different World Cup editions.

Spain looked threatening from the opening whistle, with Mikel Oyarzabal forcing an early save from Diogo Costa before missing another clear opportunity.

Portugal quickly responded as João Cancelo tested the Spanish defence, while Ronaldo saw his powerful strike denied by goalkeeper Unai Simón.

The contest remained evenly balanced throughout the first half, with both goalkeepers producing several important saves.

Portugal increased the pressure after the interval, with Pedro Neto and substitute Rafael Leão creating dangerous attacking moves.

Bruno Fernandes also came close to breaking the deadlock, but his effort found the side netting instead of the target.

Just as the match appeared destined for a penalty shootout, Spain produced the decisive breakthrough.

Mikel Merino found space inside the penalty area and calmly beat Diogo Costa to score the only goal of the contest.

Portugal launched one final push, but Bernardo Silva’s late header drifted just wide, allowing Spain to book their place in the quarter-finals.

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