Spain reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 win over Portugal decided by a late goal from substitute Mikel Merino. Multiple outlets report that Merino scores in stoppage time or in the added-time period, with some specifying the decisive strike comes in the 91st minute. The goal breaks the deadlock and ensures Spain advance without conceding. The match leaves Portugal unable to recover, and several reports note that it ends the World Cup hopes of Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo, whose tournament run concludes with the elimination.
Across the coverage, the key themes are consistent: Merino is used as a substitute and then scores the match’s only goal, Spain progress to the last eight, and Portugal are eliminated. One outlet also frames the moment as “killer” or “late winner” with Spain relying on a late breakthrough rather than controlling the game throughout. Overall, the reports agree on the result, timing, scorers, and the advancement to Spain’s quarter-final appearance.
