Monterrey, Mexico: Spain left it late to knock neighbours Portugal out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after substitute Mikel Merino struck in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory and book La Roja’s place in the quarter-finals.
With the Round of 16 encounter seemingly destined for extra time, Merino emerged as Spain’s hero in the 91st minute, calmly slotting home after being picked out by Ferran Torres just six minutes after coming off the bench.
The Arsenal midfielder controlled Torres’ perfectly weighted pass inside the box before drilling a low effort beyond goalkeeper Diogo Costa, sparking wild celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
The decisive strike ended a fiercely contested Iberian derby in which both European giants enjoyed spells of dominance but found clear-cut chances difficult to convert.
Portugal, led by veteran skipper Cristiano Ronaldo, threatened throughout the contest as João Félix, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes all came close to breaking the deadlock.
However, Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón produced some outstanding saves to frustrate Roberto Martínez’s side and preserve his clean sheet.
At the other end, Spain also created several opportunities through teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Álex Baena, Pedro Porro, and Mikel Oyarzabal, but Portugal’s defence, marshalled by Diogo Costa in goal, held firm for much of the evening.
Portugal suffered a major setback midway through the second half when influential left-back Nuno Mendes was forced off through injury and replaced by Nelson Semedo, disrupting their rhythm as the game entered its closing stages.
Sensing an opportunity, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente introduced Merino and Fabián Ruiz in the 85th minute, a tactical decision that ultimately proved decisive.
Portugal also turned to its bench, with Rafael Leão, Diogo Dalot, Francisco Conceição, and Bernardo Silva all entering the fray in search of a breakthrough, but Spain remained composed under pressure.
With referee Anthony Taylor indicating six minutes of added time, the match appeared to be drifting into extra time until Merino delivered the defining moment.
Receiving Ferran Torres’ incisive through ball inside the area, the midfielder showed remarkable composure to beat Costa with a precise low finish into the bottom corner, sending Portugal crashing out of the tournament.
The victory sees Spain continue their pursuit of a second FIFA World Cup title, while Portugal’s campaign ends in heartbreak despite another resilient display.
Spain will now face the United States or Belgium (who play next at 03:00 am EAT) in the quarter-finals after the Scandinavians stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1, thanks to a late brace from Erling Haaland.
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