Dallas, United States – Web Desk: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Portugal 1-0 in a dramatic Round of 16 clash, ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of lifting the World Cup trophy.
Played at a packed stadium in Dallas, the highly anticipated encounter remained goalless for most of the match despite both teams creating several chances. Spain looked the more dangerous side throughout the contest, registering 15 attacks compared to Portugal’s 10.
The spotlight was on Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and Portugal’s veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo. Yamal repeatedly troubled Portugal’s defence with his pace and creativity, setting up several opportunities, but Spain failed to convert during regular play.
With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, Spain produced a decisive move in the 90th minute of injury time, when Mikel Merino scored the winning goal to seal a memorable victory and send the Spanish side into the last eight.
The defeat marked the end of what is expected to be Cristiano Ronaldo’s final FIFA World Cup campaign. The Portuguese star was visibly emotional after the final whistle as his long-held dream of winning football’s biggest prize came to an end.
Spain will now face the winner of the Belgium vs United States Round of 16 match in the quarter-finals.
