Spain Edge Portugal 1-0 to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-finals
Dallas: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Portugal in a thrilling Round of 16 clash.
The only goal of the match came in the second half when the match seemingly heading for extra time, Merino struck in the 91st minute, finishing calmly after a swift attacking move to break Portuguese hearts and seal Spain’s place in the last eight, as Spain capitalized on a defensive lapse to break the deadlock. Portugal pushed hard for an equaliser, with Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates creating several chances, but Spain’s disciplined defence and outstanding goalkeeping kept the clean sheet intact.
Spain controlled possession for long periods while Portugal looked dangerous on the counterattack. Despite late pressure from the Portuguese side, Spain held firm to secure a narrow victory.
