Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a goal by Mikel Merino in the first minute of stoppage time, at 91'. The goal, scored by a substitute coming off the bench with an assist from another substitute, Ferran Torres, decided a balanced match described by several outlets as a chess game between two evenly matched teams.

The victory sends Spain through to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of USA-Belgium. The match was played at Cowboy Stadium in Dallas.

The elimination likely marks Cristiano Ronaldo's farewell to the World Cup. The player, in his sixth participation in the tournament dating back to 2006, said goodbye visibly emotional at the final whistle. According to data reported by the outlet Open, Ronaldo ends his World Cup career with 27 appearances and 11 goals, a participation record shared with Lionel Messi and Mexican goalkeeper Ochoa. With the Portugal shirt, Ronaldo has reached 233 caps and 146 goals overall.

The match was characterized by不高 paces and few clear chances during the ninety minutes of regular time. Portugal, according to reports, appeared improved compared to the group stage matches, with solid defensive performances and a spectacular save by Diogo Costa on a shot by Baena in the 16th minute. In the closing stages the Portuguese side came close to scoring through Nuno Mendes, who hit the crossbar. When extra time seemed inevitable, Merino's goal decided Spain's qualification.

Regarding individual performances, the outlet Open reports that Cristiano Ronaldo recorded 19 touches, zero completed dribbles, and three lost balls, while Lamine Yamal, whose duels with full-back Nuno Mendes characterized the play before the PSG defender's injury, did not have a decisive impact in regular time. At the final whistle, Yamal approached to embrace Ronaldo.

According to data cited by Open, Spain have reached 35 consecutive matches without defeat, approaching Italy's record of 37, and are the only national team yet to concede a goal in this World Cup.