Spain reaches quarters after last‑minute goal

Mikel Merino rose in the 91st minute and sent the Spanish national team into the World Cup 2026 quarter‑finals with a 1‑0 win over Portugal in Dallas. The header was the only goal of the match and silenced Cristiano Ronaldo in his farewell tournament.

How did the match unfold?

Spain applied high pressure from the start, forcing Portugal to play under duress. In the third minute, Mikel Oyarzabal had a clear chance, but his shot drifted slightly wide. Four minutes later, the Portuguese striker missed a golden opportunity. La Roja, orchestrated by Rodri and with Pedri carving out space, dominated possession and created several chances, though goalkeeper Diogo Costa made crucial saves, including a double stop against Pedri and a Yamal cross.

What role did Merino play in the tournament?

Merino had only started against Uruguay before this clash. Luis de la Fuente kept him in the squad despite a four‑month injury layoff. The captain seized his moment, echoing the header that gave him victory over Germany at Euro 2024. His 91st‑minute goal sealed the passage, while Unai Simón thwarted Cristiano’s attempts, who sought an equaliser in the final minutes.

What does this win mean for Spain?

The victory keeps La Roja unbeaten in the tournament and adds to a five‑game winning streak, bolstered by a recent form of 4W‑1D in the last five matches. The latest result was a 3‑0 triumph over Austria on 2026‑07‑02, and the team’s top scorer remains Mikel Oyarzabal with four goals in five appearances. The next challenge is an away duel with England on 2026‑09‑26, where pressure will be high and expectations, huge.

What lies ahead?

The side shows defensive solidity and a response capability that positions it as a favorite to reach the final. The blend of experience and youth, featuring Rodri, Pedri and the emerging Lamine Yamal, provides balance. Luis de la Fuente’s tactical direction appears to have found the formula to maximise the output of players returning from injury, like Merino. The upcoming stage will demand sustained focus and the ability to ride the momentum of this historic win.