Mikel Merino Scores Late as Spain Beats Portugal in World Cup Thriller
Mikel Merino delivered the decisive blow on 27 June 2026, netting an 86th‑minute winner that lifted Spain to a 2‑1 victory over Portugal and closed Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup story.
The Group F clash at Lusail Stadium saw Portugal take the lead early, with João Félix slotting home in the 12th minute. Spain responded through a quick equaliser from Ferran Torres at the 34th mark, setting up a tense finale. Merino, who had been a constant presence in midfield, surged forward in the final minutes and hammered home the winner, sealing the match for La Roja.
Merino’s work rate defined the midfield battle. He broke up Portuguese attacks, recovered possession 14 times, and covered more than 11 km. His late run into the box caught the Portuguese defence off‑guard, and his low‑driven finish left goalkeeper Rui Patricio with no chance. The goal not only gave Spain three points but also highlighted Merino’s knack for arriving at the right place at the right time.
At 28, Merino now boasts a World Cup knockout‑stage goal, joining a short list of Spanish midfielders to score in a World Cup knockout round. The strike adds a high‑profile moment to his résumé, which already includes a Euro 2020 title and a key role at Real Sociedad. Scouts and analysts will likely point to this performance when discussing his future, whether at club level or in potential leadership roles for the national side.
Spain’s win secures second place in Group F, guaranteeing a round‑of‑16 spot where they will meet the winner of Group E. Portugal, eliminated despite a valiant effort, see Ronaldo bow out of World Cup competition for the first time since 2006. Both teams will regroup, but the narrative now centres on Spain’s midfield engine and how Merino can shape the next stages.
Social media erupted as the clock ticked past 85 minutes. Spanish supporters praised Merino’s composure, while Portuguese fans expressed disbelief at the late turn of events. In stadium, chants of “¡Mikel, Mikel!” echoed after the final whistle, underscoring the emotional weight of the moment.
Coach Luis Enrique is expected to keep Merino in the starting XI for the knockout round, rewarding his decisive contribution. The midfielder’s blend of defensive grit and attacking instinct offers a template for the squad’s tactical flexibility, especially against teams that press high.
The match will be remembered as the night Merino turned a tightly contested game into a historic win, ending a legend’s World Cup run and cementing his own place in Spanish football lore.