Mikel Merino clinches late winner as Spain defeat Portugal

Mikel Merino delivered a dramatic stoppage‑time winner on 6 July 2026, giving Spain a 1‑0 triumph over Portugal in Dallas and booking a place in the World Cup quarter‑finals. The former Arsenal midfielder entered as a substitute and slotted home a perfect pass from Ferran Torres in the 92nd minute, silencing a packed stadium.

Portugal opened the scoring chances early, with Diogo Costa making two sharp saves against Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena. Spain responded through patient build‑up, but both sides struggled to break the deadlock. Mid‑way through the first half, Portugal’s Nuno Mendes forced an injury, leaving a gap in their back line. The game remained tense, with each side creating half‑chances, yet the score stayed level until the final minutes.

Merino entered the field in the 78th minute, replacing a tired midfield unit. Within ten minutes, he found space on the right flank, received a lofted ball from Ferran Torres, and calmly finished past Costa. His rating of 8/10 reflects the importance of that contribution, especially given his limited minutes. The goal not only broke the deadlock but also highlighted Merino’s knack for scoring crucial goals after joining a new club.

Spain now advances to the quarter‑finals, where they will meet the winner of the Group C clash. Merino’s performance could cement his place in Luis de la Fuente’s starting XI for the knockout stage, offering the team a versatile option in midfield and attack. For Portugal, the loss marks the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career, as the veteran failed to influence the game.

Portugal’s Diogo Costa earned an 8/10 for his early heroics but could not stop Merino’s late strike. Nuno Mendes, rated 8/10 before his injury, had been the most effective defender. On the Spanish side, Rodri received a 7/10 for dictating tempo, while Pedri was given a 6/10. Ferran Torres, who supplied the assist, earned a 7/10 for his creative spark.

Spain’s next challenge arrives on 12 July 2026 in Dallas, where they will face the winner of the Group C match between England and the United States. Merino’s late heroics could give the Spanish side a psychological edge, while Portugal will head home to regroup after an early exit.

**Portugal**-Diogo Costa 8, Nuno Mendes 8, Renato Veiga 7, Joao Cancelo 6, Ruben Dias 6, Joao Neves 7, Vitinha 6, Bruno Fernandes 5, Pedro Neto 6, Cristiano Ronaldo 5, Joao Felix 6.

**Spain**-Unai Simon 7, Pedro Porro 7, Pau Cubarsi 7, Aymeric Laporte 6, Marc Cucurella 7, Rodri 7, Dani Olmo 7, Lamine Yamal 6, Mikel Oyarzabal 5, Alex Baena 6, Ferran Torres 7, Fabian Ruiz 6, **Mikel Merino 8**.

The match will be remembered for Merino’s composure under pressure, a moment that could define his legacy at the World Cup.