‎Merino’s Late Strike Sends Spain Past Portugal into World Cup Quarter-finals ‎

‎‎Spain have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Portugal 1-0 in a tense Round of 16 encounter on Monday.

‎The European giants battled fiercely in a closely contested Iberian derby, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut opportunities during a cagey first half and much of the second period.

‎The deadlock was finally broken in dramatic fashion when Mikel Merino struck in the 91st minute to hand Spain a crucial victory. The midfielder calmly finished after a well-timed assist from Ferran Torres, sending the Spanish supporters into celebration.

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‎Portugal responded by pushing forward in search of an equaliser, but Spain’s disciplined defensive organisation frustrated their attacking efforts as La Roja held on to secure a place among the tournament’s final eight teams.

‎The defeat ended Portugal’s World Cup campaign despite a spirited display from the side led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who saw his team unable to find a way past a resilient Spanish defence.

‎Spain will now advance to the quarter-finals with renewed confidence as they continue their pursuit of another World Cup triumph, while Portugal exit the competition after a hard-fought battle against their Iberian neighbours.

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