Substitute Merino’s Stoppage-Time Goal Sinks Portugal

Round of 16 · AT&T Stadium, Arlington · July 6, 2026

Substitute Mikel Merino scored a minute into stoppage time as Spain beat Portugal 1-0 in Arlington.

It was a tight Iberian derby. Spain had more of the ball (55%) and more shots (15 to 10), but Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa made five saves, and Nuno Mendes hit the woodwork at the other end. Merino came on in the 85th minute and won it six minutes later, from Ferran Torres’ pass.

Spain have still not conceded a goal at this World Cup, after five games.

Spain will face USA or Belgium in the quarterfinals.

More: Portugal at the 2026 World Cup · Spain at the 2026 World Cup

ESO Soccer Match Desk

Archive coverage. First published on ESO Soccer on October 2, 2026. The archive date reflects the events covered.