Spain Edge Portugal 1-0 to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-finals

Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16. The highly anticipated clash remained goalless for most of the match, with both teams creating several chances but failing to find the breakthrough.

As the match appeared to be heading into extra time, Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner in the 91st minute, sending Spain into the last eight. The late goal left Portugal with no time to respond, and the final whistle confirmed Spain's progression to the next round.

The defeat brought Portugal's World Cup campaign to an end and marked what is widely expected to be Cristiano Ronaldo's final FIFA World Cup appearance. The Portuguese captain received an emotional farewell after the match, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable World Cup career.

With the victory, Spain will now face Belgium in the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title. Spain's disciplined defense and resilience under pressure once again proved decisive, while Portugal exited the tournament after a hard-fought performance.