Portugal’s World Cup dream ends with late loss to Spain

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup campaign came to a heartbreaking end this Monday evening (July 6) after a stoppage-time goal from Mikel Merino handed Spain a 1-0 victory in Arlington, Texas.

The substitute struck deep into added time to settle a match in which Spain controlled much of the possession and created the better chances, ending Portugal’s hopes of lifting the World Cup for the first time.

Roberto Martínez’s side struggled to find their rhythm throughout the contest and rarely threatened Spain’s defence, capping a tournament in which Portugal never fully lived up to their billing as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

Goalkeeper Diogo Costa was Portugal’s standout performer, producing a series of important saves to keep his side in the match until the closing moments.

Left-back Nuno Mendes, who was again tasked with containing Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal, was substituted early in the second half after another energetic display.

Captain Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, played the entire match in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance. The Portugal captain was unable to find the breakthrough as Spain’s defence kept the veteran forward largely quiet.

Martínez opted not to introduce Gonçalo Ramos, whose late winner against Croatia had secured Portugal’s place in the last 16.

Spain will now face the winners of the USA-Belgium tie in the quarter-finals.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.