Spain Eliminates Portugal in World Cup Round of 16 with Late Marino Goal

The 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 featured a highly anticipated match between Spain and Portugal, which ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Spain. The game remained scoreless through regular time, with both teams struggling to break through each other's defenses. The decisive moment came in the 91st minute when Spain's Mikel Merino scored a stunning goal following a well-executed play involving two substitutes, securing Spain's advancement to the quarterfinals.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who announced this would likely be his last World Cup, played the full match but could not change the outcome. At 41 years old, Ronaldo finished the tournament with three goals, bringing his total World Cup tally to 11 goals, making him Portugal's all-time top scorer in the competition. Despite his statement, there remains a possibility he could participate in the next World Cup, which Portugal will co-host.

Spain will now await the winner of the upcoming match between the United States and Belgium to determine their quarterfinal opponent. The match highlighted a tactical battle with limited clear chances until the dramatic late goal, underscoring the high stakes and intensity of knockout stage World Cup football.