Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a dramatic 1-0 win over Portugal on Monday, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from substitute Mikel Merino. The result also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career.
Merino made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, scoring just six minutes after replacing Dani Olmo. His goal in the 91st minute finally broke down a disciplined Portugal defence that had frustrated Spain for most of the match.
Spain controlled much of the second half but struggled to create a clear opening against Portugal’s organised backline. It was Merino who eventually made the difference.
The midfielder started the move by taking a quick free-kick before moving into space on the edge of the penalty area. Fellow substitute Ferran Torres spotted his run and picked him out with a perfect pass, allowing Merino to fire a low shot into the bottom corner.
The European champions will now face Belgium in Friday’s quarter-final.
For Portugal, the defeat was a heartbreaking end to their campaign and Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance. The 41-year-old left the pitch to a standing ovation from the packed crowd after confirming before the match that this would be his last World Cup.
Both teams looked dangerous from the start. Spain threatened through Mikel Oyarzabal, whose long-range effort tested goalkeeper Diogo Costa, while Joao Cancelo fired over the bar at the other end.
Oyarzabal missed a great chance to give Spain an early lead in the eighth minute after a brilliant first-time pass from Dani Olmo split the Portugal defence, but the Real Sociedad forward dragged his shot wide.
Portugal responded quickly. Bruno Fernandes won the ball from Pedri and set up Ronaldo, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon comfortably saved his effort.
Costa then produced two excellent saves in quick succession, first stopping Lamine Yamal before making an outstanding fingertip save to deny Alex Baena from close range.
Simon also made important saves, keeping out Joao Felix’s header before pushing away Ronaldo’s volley. Portugal came closest to scoring just before half-time when Nuno Mendes’ shot was deflected onto the crossbar by Pedro Porro.
Spain dominated possession after the break, forcing Portugal to defend deep and rely on counter-attacks. Costa tipped over another dangerous free-kick from Yamal, while Bruno Fernandes could only find the side-netting after Vitinha’s shot fell kindly to him.
With extra time looming, Merino produced the decisive moment. Portugal almost forced a late equaliser in the 97th minute, but substitute Bernardo Silva headed over the crossbar from a good position.
