Mikel Merino's World Cup Goal Ends Spain's 13-Year Quarterfinal Drought

In the World Cup round‑of‑16 match played in Dallas, Texas, Spain midfielder Mikel Merino scored the only goal to defeat Portugal 1‑0. The strike came from a pass by Ferran Torres after a defensive error by Portugal keeper Diogo Costa and sent Spain into the quarter‑finals for the first time since the 2010 World Cup, ending a 13‑year stretch without reaching that stage.

Merino, who returned from a stress‑fracture injury earlier in the year and was added to Luis de Fuente’s squad in late May, celebrated the moment by referencing his native Navarre and the San Fermín festivities. The win also marked Cristiano Ronaldo’s final appearance for Portugal, as he left the tournament after the loss. Spain now advances to the quarter‑finals.