Cristiano Ronaldo’s FIFA World Cup career came to a heartbreaking end as Spain edged Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send the European champions into the quarter-finals.
Merino struck deep into added time in Dallas to settle a tense Iberian derby, ending Portugal’s hopes and bringing the curtain down on Ronaldo’s World Cup journey after five tournament appearances.
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The Portugal captain, who made his World Cup debut in 2006, had announced before the match that the 2026 edition would be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Following the final whistle, the 41-year-old was overcome with emotion as he broke down in tears before being consoled by teammates, while supporters inside the stadium applauded the legendary forward. Related News Umahi battles flood claims, says coastal highway protecting Lagos Nigeria has the capacity to support local financial and AI workloads Oando rides Agip Oil assets to record 32% profit jump
