Mikel Merino's late goal eliminates Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo from 2026 World Cup
via SeneNews1 min read
Mikel Merino scored in the final minute of regulation, securing Spain's victory over Portugal in the 2026 World Cup round of 16. The decisive goal, scored at the 90+1 minute mark, ended Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey. The match was heading for extra time when Ferran Torres set up Merino, who then beat Diogo Costa with a left-footed shot, giving Spain a 1-0 lead. This late goal concluded Portugal's participation in the tournament and marked what was likely Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Portugal was defeated 0-1 by Spain in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, leading to their elimination from the competition. This loss marks an emotional moment for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who at 41, had confirmed before the tournament that this would be his final World Cup appearance. Images of the Portuguese star's distress after the final whistle quickly circulated globally. Ronaldo appeared dejected, aware that this World Cup likely represented his last major international endeavor. Portugal resisted Spain for a long time before conceding a goal to Mikel Merino in extra time, resulting in a cruel end for Ronaldo and his teammates, who were eliminated just minutes before potential extra time. The sight of Cristiano Ronaldo with his head down and tears in his eyes after the final whistle highlights the emotion of a champion who dedicated over two decades to the Portuguese national team in pursuit of a trophy he will never win.
Must ReadSenegal's participation in the 2026 World Cup was reportedly disrupted by internal tensions concerning national coach Pape Thiaw's contractual situation, according to French investigative journalist Romain Molina. Molina stated that Thiaw arrived in the United States without an officially signed contract with the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, creating uncertainty within the technical staff before a crucial World Cup match. The journalist claimed that Thiaw considered leaving the competition before the match against Norway due to disagreements over his engagement with the Federation. Molina quoted, "Pape Thiaw started packing his bags. We are in the hotel. He is ready to leave the World Cup. The Federation is in a panic." The FSF reportedly attempted to resolve the situation by offering Thiaw a new contract, which included a clause conditioning his continued involvement on qualifying for the World Cup quarterfinals. Molina explained, "They bring him a contract and they add a clause: participation in the quarterfinals; otherwise he's out. Except that it wasn't negotiated like that." This attempt to formalize the contract reportedly led to further tensions between Thiaw and some federal officials, including the FSF's secretary general. Molina reported, "New tensions between the FSF secretary general and Pape Thiaw. Insults, etc. So, they had to come back with another contract and he finally signed his contract five hours before the match against Norway."
Senegalese international forward Bamba Dieng is reportedly close to signing a three-season contract with Saudi club Al-Shabab. The 26-year-old, who previously played for Olympique de Marseille and FC Lorient in France's Ligue 1, is expected to finalize the deal in the coming days. Negotiations are said to be in their final stages, with administrative details being worked out. Dieng, known for his speed and effectiveness, was a free agent after leaving Lorient, and while several European clubs showed interest, the offer from Saudi Arabia reportedly advanced ahead of others, appealing to both the player and his representatives. This move marks a significant career change for Dieng, as he prepares to join a growing league that continues to attract players from Europe.