Spain ends Portugal’s campaign as Ronaldo bows out of World Cup

Spain reached the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after beating Portugal 1-0 with a dramatic late goal on Monday, ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career.

The match was played in front of more than 70,000 fans in Arlington, but both teams struggled to create clear chances for most of the game.

Just when extra time looked certain, substitute Ferran Torres set up fellow substitute Mikel Merino, who scored the winning goal in the first minute of injury time.

Spain captain Rodri praised his team’s patience and said, “If anyone thinks that we will move forward without suffering, they are mistaken.” He also called Merino “He’s a sensational player… one that I love.”

The defeat marked the end of Ronaldo’s World Cup journey. The 41-year-old, who had already said this would be his last World Cup, looked emotional after the final whistle.

Spain have still not conceded a goal in the tournament and will now face either the United States or Belgium in the quarter-finals on Friday in Los Angeles.

Before the match, both teams observed a touching moment as an image of late Portugal forward Diogo Jota was shown on the stadium screen.

Spain created the better chances early, but Portugal also came close when Nuno Mendes’ shot hit the crossbar after a deflection.

Young Spain star Lamine Yamal and Ronaldo, who were expected to be the main attractions, were both kept quiet for most of the match.

In the end, Merino’s late goal proved enough to send the European champions into the last eight while Portugal were knocked out of the tournament.