Post by Chidi Nnanna (@Chidy)

Mikel Merino Fires Spain Into Quarter-Finals as Portugal and Ronaldo Crash Out

FULL-TIME: 🇵🇹 Portugal 0-1 Spain 🇪🇸

Portugal’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has come to an end after a narrow defeat to their Iberian rivals, Spain.

The match was a tactical battle between two well-organised sides, with clear-cut chances at a premium. However, Spain showed greater determination and made the decisive moment count.

A solitary strike from Mikel Merino proved enough to separate the two teams, sending Spain into the quarter-finals and ending Portugal’s World Cup dream.

Portugal pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages. Bernardo Silva headed wide from a promising position, while João Neves also came close but failed to direct his header on target.

As many predicted, the first goal turned out to be decisive. Spain expertly managed the game after taking the lead, absorbing Portugal’s late pressure to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory.

For Cristiano Ronaldo, it marks another heartbreaking end to his quest for World Cup glory, while Spain continue their march towards the trophy.

#WorldCup2026 #Portugal #Spain #CristianoRonaldo #MikelMerino #FIFAWorldCup #Football #QuarterFinals #SpainVsPortugal #WorldCupDrama

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