Cristiano Ronaldo bowed out as Spain ended Portugal’s World Cup dream

Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the World Cup without a single prize that has always eluded him, but never without admiration for the game he helped define. Portugal’s future may finally be ready to surpass him, but their greatest footballing story will forever begin with the man who carried the nation for more than two decades.

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to keep his World Cup dream alive. (Photo: Reuters)

dallas,UPDATED: July 7, 2026 02:58 IST

Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, courtesy of Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time winner in Dallas. Luis de la Fuente’s side dominated possession and created more chances, with Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal repeatedly testing Portugal’s resolute defence. Diogo Costa, Rben Dias and Renato Veiga kept Spain at bay for more than 90 minutes before substitutes Fabin Ruiz and Ferran Torres combined to set up Merino for the decisive strike. Defeat also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s sixth and final FIFA World Cup campaign.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

07 Jul 2026 02:58 IST