World Cup 2026: Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo knocked out

06.07.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

0

:

Spain

1

With the only goal of the match scored by Merino in stoppage time, Spain clinched their Round of 16 victory at the 2026 World Cup against Portugal (1-0).

It took until the dying moments of this high-stakes clash to see the game’s lone goal. Fans expected more action after the break. But the second half, marked by the injury exit of Nuno Mendes—who had been brilliant in his duels with Yamal—proved disappointing.

Aside from Yamal’s free kick, parried by Diogo Costa, and a half-volley from Portugal’s Bruno Fernandes that sailed off target, there wasn’t much to report. Extra time seemed inevitable. But in added time, a superb assist from Ferran Torres allowed Merino (1-0, 90+1’) to send Spain through with a dramatic winner.

La Roja advance to the quarterfinals, where they’ll face the winner of the USA vs Belgium match.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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