Late Merino goal sends Spain to quarterfinals, ending Ronaldo's World Cup career

sports football world cup

Substitute Mikel Merino scored a 91st minute winner as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 on Monday in Arlington, Texas. The goal, which came seconds into second-half stoppage time, secured a tense last-16 victory for the European champions.

The win sends Spain into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since winning the title in 2010. The match also brings the curtain down on Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career.

Spain will now face either the United States or Belgium in the quarterfinals. The match is scheduled for Friday in Inglewood, California.

Spain beat Portugal, reach 1st quarters since 2010...

espn.com

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career ends after Mikel Merino's late goal sends Spain to quarterfinals

pbs.org

Spain advances to quarterfinals in Portugal star Ronaldo's potential final World Cup game

cbc.ca

Spain win it late to bid farewell to Ronaldo at World Cup

channelnewsasia.com

Last-gasp Mikel Merino strike gives Spain 1-0 win over Portugal in World Cup last 16

straitstimes.com

Merino strikes late as Spain edge Portugal, drawing curtain on Ronaldo's World Cup career

france24.com