Mikel Merino Scores Late Winner to End Ronaldo's World Cup Dream

**Mikel Merino** delivered the decisive blow on 7 July 2026, coming off the bench to net the only goal of Spain’s 1‑0 victory over Portugal and sealing a place in the World Cup quarter‑finals. The Arsenal midfielder entered the match in the 80th minute and, six minutes later, struck in added time, a strike that also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career.

Merino replaced a tired midfielder at the 80‑minute mark, immediately sensing space on the right flank. He cut inside, received a low pass from Dani Olmo, and unleashed a driven left‑footed shot from the edge of the box. The ball curled past Diogo Costa, nestling in the bottom corner at the 86th minute. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Spanish bench and silenced the Portuguese supporters.

Just weeks before the tournament, Merino had flirted with exclusion after a lingering injury forced him out of Arsenal’s final league games. His selection for Spain proved a gamble that paid off, echoing his performances at Euro 2024 where he helped the side lift the trophy. The late winner reinforced his reputation as a clutch player, capable of changing a game’s trajectory in seconds.

Spain now faces either England or the Netherlands in the quarter‑finals, depending on the outcome of the other group‑stage match. Portugal, once considered a favourite thanks to a deep squad, exits the competition, leaving the 41‑year‑old Ronaldo to contemplate retirement from international duty. The win also boosts La Roja’s confidence, showing they can rely on depth and experience when the pressure mounts.

Back at Arsenal, Merino’s heroics will likely cement his place in the starting XI. Manager Mikel Arteta praised the midfielder’s composure, noting that the player “delivered when the whole world was watching.” The performance may also spark interest from other clubs, but for now the focus remains on helping Spain progress and on maintaining fitness for the demanding second half of the World Cup.

**Key details:**

- Date: 7 July 2026

- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026, Group F match

- Final score: Spain 1 - 0 Portugal

- Goal minute: 86′ (added time)

- Substituted in: 80′

- Goal scorer: Mikel Merino (Arsenal midfielder)

- Outcome: Spain advance to quarter‑finals; Ronaldo’s World Cup career ends