The Spain vs Portugal rivalry once again delivered one of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, with the Iberian neighbors meeting in a dramatic Round of 16 showdown. Football fans around the world tuned in to watch Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, João Félix, and Diogo Costa face a talented Spain national football team led by young stars and experienced midfielders.
In the end, Spain defeated Portugal 1-0, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Mikel Merino, sending La Roja into the quarter-finals while ending Portugal’s World Cup campaign.
Spain vs Portugal: Match Summary
The Portugal vs Spain World Cup 2026 clash was played at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with both teams entering the knockout stage in excellent form.
Spain dominated possession for large periods, while Portugal relied on quick counterattacks through Pedro Neto, João Félix, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
For much of the game, Diogo Costa kept Portugal alive with several important saves. However, Spain continued pressing until Mikel Merino found the breakthrough in the 91st minute to seal a famous victory.
Portugal National Football Team vs Spain National Football Team Lineups
Portugal Starting XI
- Diogo Costa
- João Cancelo
- Rúben Dias
- Renato Veiga
- Nuno Mendes
- João Neves
- Vitinha
- Bruno Fernandes
- Pedro Neto
- João Félix
- Cristiano Ronaldo
Spain Starting XI
- Unai Simón
- Pedro Porro
- Pau Cubarsí
- Aymeric Laporte
- Marc Cucurella
- Rodri
- Pedri
- Dani Olmo
- Lamine Yamal
- Álex Baena
- Mikel Oyarzabal
Spain kept the same lineup that comfortably defeated Austria, while Portugal introduced João Félix into the starting eleven.
Who Won Portugal or Spain?
Many fans searched:
- Who won Portugal or Spain?
- Who won Spain or Portugal?
- Did Spain win?
The answer is simple.
Spain won 1-0 after Mikel Merino scored in stoppage time, sending Spain into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. Portugal were eliminated from the tournament.
Did Portugal Get Eliminated?
Yes.
If you’re asking:
- Is Portugal out of the World Cup?
- Is Portugal still in the World Cup?
- Did Portugal get eliminated?
- Is Portugal eliminated from the World Cup?
The answer is yes. Portugal’s World Cup journey ended after the defeat against Spain.
Spain World Cup Dream Continues
Spain have looked among the strongest teams at the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The Spanish midfield controlled possession through Rodri and Pedri, while attacking players like Álex Baena, Lamine Yamal, and Mikel Oyarzabal created numerous chances.
Late in the match, Merino Spain fans celebrated as Mikel Merino scored the winning goal, proving once again why he remains one of Spain’s most dependable midfielders.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Last World Cup?
One of the biggest talking points before kickoff was:
Is this Ronaldo’s last World Cup?
Yes. Cristiano Ronaldo had already confirmed that this tournament would be his final FIFA World Cup appearance. Following Portugal’s defeat, emotional scenes saw the legendary forward leave the pitch in tears, leading to widespread searches for “Ronaldo crying” and “Ronaldo World Cup.”
Although Ronaldo never lifted the World Cup trophy, he leaves behind one of football’s greatest international careers.
Did Ronaldo Win the World Cup?
No.
Despite winning:
- UEFA Euro 2016
- UEFA Nations League
Cristiano Ronaldo never won the FIFA World Cup.
His final opportunity ended against Spain in the Round of 16.
Portugal’s Standout Performers
Even in defeat, several Portuguese players impressed.
Bruno Fernandes
The creative midfielder constantly looked to unlock Spain’s defense with accurate passing.
Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva worked tirelessly in midfield and was involved in one of the game’s heated moments with Rodri late in the match.
Vitinha
Vitinha controlled possession whenever Portugal managed to build attacks and remains one of Europe’s finest young midfielders.
Diogo Costa
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced several outstanding saves that kept Portugal in the contest until stoppage time.
João Félix
Starting ahead of Rafael Leão, João Félix offered creativity but found limited space against Spain’s disciplined defense.
Spain’s Match Winners
Several Spanish players delivered outstanding performances.
Mikel Merino
Merino became the hero by scoring the winning goal in stoppage time.
Álex Baena
Baena constantly threatened Portugal from midfield and helped create attacking opportunities.
Pedro Porro
Pedro Porro defended well while also supporting attacks from right-back.
Portugal National Football Team vs Spain National Football Team Stats
Key match statistics included:
- Spain controlled most of the possession.
- Spain created more shots on target.
- Portugal defended effectively for 90 minutes.
- Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in added time.
- Spain advanced to the quarter-finals while Portugal exited the tournament.
Portugal National Football Team vs Spain National Football Team Timeline
First Half
- Tight tactical battle.
- Spain controlled possession.
- Portugal defended compactly.
Second Half
- Spain increased attacking pressure.
- Portugal created dangerous counterattacks.
- Nuno Mendes departed after injury.
91st Minute
- Mikel Merino scored the winner.
Full Time
- Portugal 0-1 Spain.
Spain vs Portugal Prediction Revisited
Many pre-match predictions expected an extremely close contest.
Most analysts favored Spain because of their recent form, while Portugal hoped Ronaldo’s experience could make the difference.
Ultimately, Spain justified their status as favorites by controlling much of the match and finding a dramatic late winner.
Where to Watch Portugal vs Spain and the FIFA World Cup
Fans searching for:
- Where to watch Portugal national football team vs Spain national football team
- Watch World Cup live
- World Cup live stream
- How to watch the World Cup
- Where can I watch the World Cup for free
- FOX World Cup
should check the official FIFA broadcast partners in their country. In the United States, the tournament is available through FOX, FS1, and Telemundo, with streaming options available through authorized platforms.
What’s Next for Spain?
After eliminating Portugal, Spain advance to the World Cup quarter-finals with growing confidence. Their balanced squad, strong midfield, and clinical finishing make them one of the favorites to lift the FIFA World Cup 2026™ trophy.
For Portugal, questions now turn to the future after Cristiano Ronaldo. Talented players such as Vitinha, João Neves, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, João Félix, and Diogo Costa will be expected to lead the next generation as the national team prepares for future international competitions. Spain’s victory also reinforces their status as one of world football’s elite teams, keeping alive hopes of adding another World Cup title to their historic achievements.
