Spain advanced past Portugal in a tight Round of 16 encounter held in Dallas, clinching a 1-0 victory through a dramatic late goal. Mikel Merino, introduced from the bench, capitalised in the closing stages of the second half to break the deadlock against Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa and send his side through to the next round.

The result marks the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's participation in the tournament, as Portugal's elimination removes one of football's prominent figures from further competition. Spain's progression positions them to challenge whoever emerges from the concurrent USA-Belgium match, with the Spanish side advancing as strong contenders for the later stages.