Spain booked their place in the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Portugal in a tense Round of 16 clash, with substitute Mikel Merino heading home the only goal deep into stoppage time.
The two European heavyweights traded chances for long spells without breaking the deadlock, with Portugal’s defense holding firm against wave after wave of Spanish pressure. It looked destined for extra time until Merino rose highest at the back post in the 90th+1st minute to send the Spanish bench into delirium.
It’s a heartbreaking exit for a talented Portugal side, while Spain now advance to face the winner of the Norway-Brazil bracket path in the quarter-finals, continuing their bid for a first World Cup title since 2010.
Spain becomes the latest side to punch their ticket to the last eight, joining an increasingly star-studded quarter-final field as the 2026 tournament heads into its final stretch.