#SPORTS
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.
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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