Spain defeats Portugal 1-0 in World Cup Round of 16, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's tournament
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Portugal in a tense World Cup Round of 16 match at Dallas Stadium, with Mikel Merino scoring a late goal in stoppage time. The defeat ended Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey. The match was tightly contested, with both teams creating few clear chances. Portugal's goalkeeper Diogo Costa made key saves, while Spain's defense, anchored by Rodri, effectively blunted Portugal's attack. A hamstring injury to Nuno Mendes in the second half disrupted Portugal's balance. Ferran Torres assisted Merino's decisive goal, which came from a quick free-kick. Spain now advances to the quarter-finals, while Portugal exits the tournament after a resilient run that included a win over Croatia in the Round of 32.
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