Spain advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals after a 1-0 victory over Portugal on Monday, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time. The win marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career, as the 41-year-old forward played his final match for Portugal. Spain, which has not conceded a goal in the tournament, will face either the United States or Belgium in the next round.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised 18-year-old Lamine Yamal for his performance, calling it one of the most important matches of his career. Yamal, who has been managing a hamstring injury, contributed significantly to Spain's pressure on Portugal's defense. De la Fuente also acknowledged the physical toll Yamal's play had on Portugal's Nuno Mendes, who was forced off the field in the 56th minute.
Portugal's defeat also marked the end of manager Roberto Martinez's tenure, as he announced his departure after the match. Martinez, who had led Portugal since 2022, said the defeat signaled the end of a cycle for the team. Ronaldo, who scored three goals in the tournament, expressed pride in his contributions to Portugal but did not confirm whether he would retire from international football immediately.
Spain's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Unai Simón, has set a World Cup record with six consecutive clean sheets. The team's disciplined performance was key to their victory, as they limited Portugal's scoring opportunities. Ronaldo, who had been a focal point for Portugal, was largely ineffective in the match, with Spain's backline containing him throughout.
The match was closely watched as a potential showcase of two generations of football talent, with Ronaldo at one end of his career and Yamal at the beginning. Spain's victory sets them up for a challenging quarterfinal match, while Portugal's exit brings an end to Ronaldo's World Cup journey.