Mikel Merino's 91st-Minute Winner Sends Spain Into World Cup Quarter-Finals After Dramatic Victory Over Portugal

Mikel Merino's 91st-Minute Winner Sends Spain Into World Cup Quarter-Finals After Dramatic Victory Over Portugal

Description: Mikel Merino's dramatic 91st-minute goal sends Spain into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after a thrilling 1-0 victory over Portugal. Can Spain go all the way and win the tournament?

Spain are through to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after Mikel Merino delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner to break Portugal's hearts in a tense Round of 16 showdown.

Just when the match looked destined for extra time, Mikel Merino produced a moment of magic in the 91st minute, firing home the decisive goal to seal a hard-fought 1-0 victory and keep Spain's World Cup dream alive.

The clash was a tactical battle from the opening whistle, with both sides creating limited clear-cut opportunities. Portugal, led by their experienced stars, defended resolutely while Spain dominated possession but struggled to find a breakthrough against a disciplined back line.

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Spain finally found the opening they had been searching for. Merino timed his run perfectly before clinically finishing past the Portuguese goalkeeper, sparking wild celebrations among Spanish players and fans.

The dramatic late strike proved to be the difference, ending Portugal's World Cup campaign in heartbreaking fashion while sending Spain into the last eight with renewed belief.

Spain have impressed throughout the tournament with their disciplined defending, patient possession football and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Their resilience against Portugal further strengthens their credentials as genuine contenders for the World Cup title.

With momentum firmly on their side, Luis de la Fuente's men now turn their attention to the quarter-finals, where an even tougher challenge awaits. However, after surviving one of the tournament's biggest knockout tests, confidence inside the Spanish camp will be sky-high.

Can Spain Win the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Following this dramatic victory, Spain have once again emerged as one of the favourites to lift the World Cup trophy. Their blend of experienced leaders and exciting young talents has made them one of the most balanced teams remaining in the competition.

If they continue producing composed performances under pressure and capitalize on their attacking opportunities, Spain have every chance of going all the way to become world champions once again.

One thing is certain: after Mikel Merino's unforgettable stoppage-time heroics, Spain's World Cup journey is far from over—and the rest of the football world has been put on notice.