Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 on Monday in a Round of 16 match in Dallas [1], [4].
The result eliminates Portugal from the tournament and marks the end of the World Cup campaign for forward Cristiano Ronaldo [2].
The match remained scoreless for the vast majority of play, characterized by a defensive struggle in the U.S. city [4]. Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa provided a notable highlight for his side by executing a double save earlier in the game to keep the match level [1], [2].
Spain eventually broke the deadlock in the final moments of the contest. Midfielder Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 91st minute [2], [3]. The late strike secured the victory for Spain and sent them through to the quarterfinals [2].
Portugal failed to find an equalizer in the remaining minutes after Merino's goal. The final score stood at 0-1 in favor of Spain [2].
“Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 on Monday in a Round of 16 match in Dallas”
Spain's progression to the quarterfinals reinforces their status as a top contender in the 2026 tournament. For Portugal, the loss is particularly significant as it concludes the international World Cup journey of Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most decorated players in the sport's history.
