Spain Eliminates Portugal in Stoppage Time, Ronaldo Confirms World Cup Exit
Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in a World Cup last-16 clash after Mikel Merino scored in stoppage time. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed it was his final World Cup appearance.
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Spain eliminated Portugal 1-0 in the World Cup last 16 after Mikel Merino scored in the first minute of stoppage time, ending Portugal's campaign in heartbreaking fashion. The goal came moments before the match appeared destined for extra time, securing Spain’s place in the tournament quarterfinals (The Whistler).
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed the match marked his final World Cup appearance. “My last World Cup is over,” Ronaldo said, though he added that a final decision on his international future can wait (Al Jazeera). The 41-year-old forward received a standing ovation from fans after being substituted late in the second half.
Merino’s strike followed sustained Spanish pressure in the closing minutes. Portugal had defended resolutely throughout the second half but could not withstand Spain’s late surge. The result marks another early exit for Portugal, despite Ronaldo’s continued presence in the squad.
Spain advances to face the winner of the France–Belgium last-16 tie, while Portugal begins a post-tournament transition. Ronaldo’s international career beyond the World Cup remains uncertain, though he did not formally announce retirement (Al Jazeera, The Whistler).