Mikel Merino Scores Extra‑Time Winner to Send Spain Past Portugal

Mikel Merino delivered a dramatic 112th‑minute goal on 21 Jun 2026, sending Spain past Portugal 2‑1 after extra time in the FIFA World Cup knockout round. The midfielder’s strike ended a tense 90‑minute deadlock and propelled La Roja into the quarter‑finals.

Spain opened the scoring early, with a low‑driven finish from Álvaro Morata in the 23rd minute. Portugal responded through João Félix, who equalised with a curling effort in the 57th. Both sides pressed for a winner, but neither could break the stalemate in regulation, forcing extra time.

The ball fell to Merino on the edge of the box after a quick counter‑attack. He slipped a precise left‑footed shot into the bottom corner, leaving goalkeeper Diogo Costa stranded. The goal arrived just five minutes into the added period, leaving Portugal little time to regroup.

The winner marks Merino’s first World Cup knockout‑stage goal and highlights his growing reputation as a big‑game performer. It also boosts his market value ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, where clubs will monitor his clutch credentials.

Spain now faces Germany in the quarter‑finals on 27 Jun 2026. Coach Luis Enrique will likely keep Merino in the starting XI, trusting his ability to influence tight matches. The Spaniards will aim to replicate the resilience shown against Portugal.

Portugal’s coach Roberto Martínez praised his side’s effort but admitted the late concession was painful. He hinted at tactical tweaks before the next round of the tournament, hoping to avoid another extra‑time heartbreak.