How did Spain’s stoppage-time goal reshape Portugal’s World Cup campaign?

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Spain’s stoppage-time goal ended Portugal’s World Cup run and sent them out of the tournament
Spain’s 1-0 win over Portugal came when Mikel Merino scored in the first minute of stoppage time, and that goal directly ended Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup campaign. Portugal were unable to break Spain’s defence despite creating chances that led to only two shots on target, and the result meant they did not advance to the quarter-finals.
Merino’s stoppage-time finish decided the knockout match
The decisive moment arrived late, with Merino scoring after latching onto a through ball from a quick free kick and finishing past Diogo Costa. Spain had struggled to break down Portugal for long stretches, and the late goal settled the contest in a dour game between the Iberian rivals.
Portugal’s defeat ended Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup
The loss marked the end of Ronaldo’s World Cup dream, with the 41-year-old playing in his sixth World Cup. After the match, Ronaldo said it was his last World Cup and that he would take time to consider his future, instead of making rash decisions.
Portugal produced limited attacking threat against Spain
Portugal mustered just two shots on target, while Spain had six, highlighting how difficult it was for Portugal to create enough pressure to equalise. With the match ending 1-0, Portugal’s campaign concluded immediately rather than continuing to a later stage.
Spain advanced to a quarter-final against the United States or Belgium
Spain’s victory sent them into the quarter-finals on Friday, where they will play either the United States or Belgium. That advancement also clarified Portugal’s elimination, since the stoppage-time goal ensured Portugal would not progress further in the tournament.

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How did Spain’s stoppage-time goal reshape Portugal’s World Cup campaign?

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