Portugal's forward #07 Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after losing the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Portugal and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 6, 2026. (Photo by Aric Becker / AFP)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey ended in heartbreak on Monday night as a late strike from Mikel Merino handed Spain a 1-0 victory over Portugal in a tense Round of 16 clash at Dallas Stadium.
The veteran forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been widely tipped to be making his final appearance at the tournament, could not inspire a breakthrough as Portugal fell to a stoppage-time blow.
Ronaldo led the line with his usual intensity alongside João Félix and Bruno Fernandes, threatening in spells and forcing Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón into action in the first half.
But Spain national football team held firm, with Rodri anchoring a disciplined defensive structure that blunted Portugal’s attack for long periods.
