Spain’s late goal eliminated Portugal from the 2026 World Cup and may have just put an end to the illustrious international career of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Mikel Merino’s goal in the 91st minute was all the Spanish needed to advance to the quarterfinals, where they will play the winner of Monday’s USA-Belgium match. The goal decided a war of attrition after both teams had failed to live up to the hype of the massive match.
Both teams had good opportunities to score in the opening half. Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal was through on Portugal’s goal alone early on in the first half but sent his shot wide in the best chance for La Roja. The best opportunity for Portugal came through Nuno Mendes, whose deflected shot rocketed off the crossbar after cleanly beating Spanish keeper Unai Simón.
There were also great chances for Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old Spanish star, but nothing that got over the line and into the back of the net before the first half whistle blew.
The second half started much like the first half, as both teams created occasional chances, with most of the action coming from the Spanish. There ultimately wasn’t a ton of action and was certainly a comedown from the thrilling contests played out a day before.
