Spain beats Portugal 1-0 in stoppage time, ending Ronaldo's World Cup

Spain has reached the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in three tournaments, defeating Portugal 1-0 in a dramatic match at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas on July 6. The decisive goal came in the 91st minute from midfielder Mikel Merino, securing Spain's advancement and ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career.

Merino's goal came after a quick restart following a foul near Portugal's penalty area. A series of passes led to Ferrán Torres assisting Merino, who broke into the box and scored the game's only goal. Despite late pressure from Portugal, Spain held on for the win.

Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón continued his impressive streak, maintaining his record of 609 consecutive minutes without conceding a goal in World Cup matches. He had already set a new record in the round of 16 after Spain's 3-0 victory over Austria.

Both goalkeepers, Simón and Portugal's Diogo Costa, were instrumental throughout the match. Spain had early chances through Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena, forcing saves from Costa. Portugal responded with attacks from João Félix and a shot that hit the crossbar from Nuno Mendes. Costa also made crucial saves, including one against Cristiano Ronaldo.

In added time, Portugal had two opportunities to equalize. Bernardo Silva's header went just over the bar, and João Neves' header narrowly missed the post. The final whistle confirmed Spain's narrow victory, sending them to the next stage while Portugal and Ronaldo exit the tournament.

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Unai Simon has now gone 609 minutes without conceding at the World Cup. Extending his record for the longest clean sheet streak by a goalkeeper in the tournament’s history.