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DALLAS, USA – Spain vs Portugal World Cup produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Mikel Merino at Dallas Stadium.
The late goal ended a fiercely contested Iberian derby and booked Spain’s place in the quarter-finals, while Portugal’s World Cup journey came to a heartbreaking end.
Spain vs Portugal World Cup Delivers Late Drama
The Spain vs Portugal World Cup clash was a tactical battle from the opening whistle. Spain controlled more possession with 50% compared to Portugal’s 41% and consistently created dangerous opportunities.
Portugal defended well throughout the match and nearly forced extra time. Cristiano Ronaldo led the attack and registered three shots, but Spain’s disciplined defense prevented the veteran forward from finding the breakthrough.
Spain produced 15 attempts, including six on target, while Portugal managed 10 shots with only two testing the goalkeeper.
Merino Breaks Portuguese Hearts
As the match entered stoppage time, Spain finally found the decisive breakthrough.
In the 91st minute, Ferran Torres delivered a perfectly weighted assist into the penalty area where Mikel Merino arrived unmarked and calmly finished past the Portuguese goalkeeper.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Spanish players and supporters while Portugal had no time left to respond.
Spain’s Midfield Dominates
Spain set the pace for most of the match with an impressive midfield performance.
Rodri completed 91 passes and covered 12.34 kilometers, helping Spain dictate possession throughout the contest. Pau Cubarsi also impressed defensively by completing 29 line breaks and keeping Portugal under pressure.
Although Portugal attempted to respond after conceding, Spain remained organized and comfortably protected their narrow advantage until the final whistle.
Match Statistics
- Result: Portugal 0-1 Spain
- Goalscorer: Mikel Merino (90+1′)
- Assist: Ferran Torres
- Possession: Portugal 41% – Spain 50%
- Shots: Portugal 10 – Spain 15
- Shots on Target: Portugal 2 – Spain 6
- Corners: Portugal 3 – Spain 7
What This Means
Spain advances to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after another composed knockout performance.
For Portugal, the defeat marks a painful end to their campaign despite another determined display led by Cristiano Ronaldo. Spain, meanwhile, continues their pursuit of another World Cup title with confidence growing after eliminating one of Europe’s strongest rivals.
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