2026 World Cup: Spain eliminate Portugal as five teams qualify for quarter-final
Spain Advances in World Cup by Defeating Portugal
Spain has secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup following a decisive victory over Portugal in the Round of 16.
The closely contested match remained scoreless until the final moments of regular time, when Mikel Merino, who came off the bench, capitalized on a well-orchestrated team play to net the game-winning goal, pushing Spain ahead.
With this victory, Spain is set to face either co-hosts the United States or Belgium in the next round.
This match may also mark the final international appearance for Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, whose future on the field remains uncertain.
As the tournament progresses, two additional quarter-final matchups have been confirmed: England will compete against Norway, while France will take on Morocco.