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Portugal vs Spain FIFA 2026 Highlights: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16. The all-important goal came deep into stoppage time as Mikel Merino scored in the 90+1st minute, ending Portugal's campaign and bringing Cristiano Ronaldo's final FIFA World Cup journey to a close.
The high-intensity knockout clash featured chances for both teams, but Spain held their nerve until the final moments to secure a memorable win.
Portugal vs Spain Match Details
- Match: Portugal vs Spain
- Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 16
- Venue: Dallas Stadium
- Final Score: Portugal 0-1 Spain
- Winner: Spain
- Winning Goal: Mikel Merino (90+1')
Portugal vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 Highlights
- Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 to reach the quarterfinals.
- Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in stoppage time (90+1').
- The match remained goalless for 90 minutes before the late breakthrough.
- Goalkeeper Diogo Costa made several important saves for Portugal.
- Cristiano Ronaldo's final FIFA World Cup campaign ended with the defeat.
- Spain became the first team to keep six consecutive World Cup clean sheets.
- Spain advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of USA vs Belgium.
First Half: Both Teams Miss Big Chances
The opening half was tightly contested, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to find the net.
Spain came close through Mikel Oyarzabal, whose effort missed the target, while goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced an excellent save to deny Alex Baena's curling shot.
Portugal also looked dangerous on the counter. Cristiano Ronaldo tested Spain's defense with his movement, and Nuno Mendes nearly scored after his deflected strike hit the crossbar. Despite the attacking intent from both teams, the first half ended 0-0.
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Second Half: Merino Delivers the Decisive Moment
The second half remained evenly balanced as both teams defended well and limited clear-cut opportunities. With extra time appearing inevitable, Spain found the breakthrough in stoppage time.
In the 90+1st minute, substitute Ferran Torres delivered a perfectly weighted pass into the box. Mikel Merino timed his run brilliantly and calmly finished past the goalkeeper to score the only goal of the match.
The late strike sealed a dramatic 1-0 victory for Spain and ended Portugal's hopes of continuing in the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup Career Comes to an End
The defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's FIFA World Cup career. Before the tournament, the Portuguese legend had confirmed that World Cup 2026 would be his final appearance on football's biggest stage.
Ronaldo finished his World Cup journey with 11 goals in 27 matches and remains the first men's player to score in six different FIFA World Cup editions, adding another historic milestone to his legendary career.
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Spain Creates World Cup History
Spain's disciplined defensive display earned them another clean sheet, making them the first team in FIFA World Cup history to record six consecutive clean sheets.
The Spanish side has now emerged as one of the strongest contenders for the title, combining solid defending with patience in attack.
What's Next for Spain?
After eliminating Portugal, Spain progressed to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the USA vs Belgium Round of 16 clash.
With confidence growing and their defense in outstanding form, Spain will look to continue their impressive run toward another World Cup title.
Also Read: USA vs Belgium FIFA World Cup 2026 Highlights: Belgium Beats USA 4-1
