Spain Eliminates Portugal in Last-Minute Win at 2026 World Cup Round of 16

In a dramatic match held in Dallas on July 7, 2026, Spain secured a last-minute 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup. Fran Torres and Mikel Merino, who both came off the bench, combined to score the decisive goal in the 91st minute, just after the 90th minute mark. This goal sent Spain through to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the United States versus Belgium match.

The defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career. At 41 years old, Ronaldo, who had recently announced that this tournament would be his last, exited the competition without ever winning the World Cup with Portugal. The loss was a significant moment as one of football's all-time greats bowed out on the world stage.

Spain's victory was a dramatic conclusion to a tightly contested game, highlighting the intensity and unpredictability of the tournament's knockout stages. The Spanish team now prepares for their next challenge in the quarterfinals, aiming to continue their pursuit of the World Cup title.