Spain Knock Out Portugal as Ronaldo’s World Cup Dream Comes to an End

Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, securing a place in the quarter-finals and ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of winning the World Cup.

Played at the Dallas Football Stadium, Spain delivered the stronger performance, creating 15 attacks compared to Portugal’s 10. Young star Lamine Yamal repeatedly troubled Portugal’s defense with his creativity and passing, although his teammates were unable to convert the chances into goals.

The match remained goalless throughout regular time, with both teams failing to break the deadlock. However, in the first minute of stoppage time, Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 90th minute, handing Spain a dramatic 1-0 victory.

The defeat marked the end of what is expected to be Cristiano Ronaldo’s final FIFA World Cup campaign. The veteran forward was seen in tears after the final whistle as his lifelong ambition of lifting the World Cup trophy came to an end.

Spain will now face either Belgium or the United States in the quarter-finals.