Mikel Merino came off the bench and, after a precise through‑ball from Ferran Torres, slotted the ball past Diogo Costa in the 90+1 minute to win the round‑of‑16 tie 1‑0.
The goal was the only strike of the match; Spain kept a clean sheet for the second consecutive game, while Portugal failed to create any clear chances despite Cristiano Ronaldo's efforts.
With the win, Spain advance to face either the United States or Belgium in the quarter‑finals, while Portugal’s World Cup campaign ends with Ronaldo’s final appearance.
Betting markets will adjust as Spain’s odds to reach the semi‑finals improve, while Portugal’s odds for future tournaments drop sharply.
Merino M. — Arsenal, Premier League 2025/2026: 21 apps · ⚽ 4 · 🅰 3 · 🟨 1
Barcelona