Spain's stoppage-time strike ends Ronaldo's World Cup

Spain secured a World Cup quarterfinal place on Monday as Mikel Merino’s stoppage‑time strike ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s tournament career. The 91st‑minute goal, a pass from Ferran Torres slipped past Diogo Costa into the left post, gave La Roja a 1‑0 win in Arlington, Texas, and sealed the result. SPAIN TAKES THE LEAD ON THE STROKE OF STOPPAGE TIME, and the heroics were captured by on July 6, 2026. The decisive finish broke a scoreless tie and propelled Spain into the quarterfinals while Portugal’s run concluded. Portugal pressed for an equaliser, with Rafael Leão heading over the crossbar from the box and a late free‑kick header drifting wide left. Minutes later Nuno Mendes struck the post, his shot off the crossbar leaving the ball OFF THE BAR and SO CLOSE to a breakthrough.

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Goalkeeper Diogo Costa recorded five saves, but Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simón also shone, denying a Ronaldo rebound with a crucial PLAY‑making save. The match featured a notable SAVE by Simón in the first half, underscoring his impact. Spain’s defensive run continued, having not conceded a goal in five World Cup games. The team controlled 56% of possession, limited Portugal to two shots, and previously defeated Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay and Austria in the Round of 32.

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With the win, La Roja advances to the Quarterfinals to meet the winner of the USA‑Belgium clash. Spain enters the knockout stage among the favourites to claim a second World Cup title. After the final whistle, Ronaldo was visibly emotional, acknowledging the end of his World Cup journey. At 41, he will be 45 at the next tournament, which will be co‑hosted by Portugal, Spain and Morocco.