Spain left it late to edge past Iberian rivals Portugal with a 1-0 victory at AT&T Stadium, securing a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It was a tightly contested Round of 16 encounter, with Portugal enjoying the better moments for large spells of the game while remaining well organised defensively to frustrate the Spaniards.
Spain, however, struggled to hit their usual rhythm and looked far from their best, with Portugal successfully limiting their attacking threat throughout normal time.
The breakthrough eventually arrived deep into additional time after Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente turned to his bench. Substitute Ferran Torres delivered a fine pass for fellow substitute Mikel Merino, who calmly finished to score the decisive goal.
Portugal pushed for a late equaliser but Spain held firm to seal a dramatic victory and continue their quest for a second World Cup title.
The win sends La Roja into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between the United States and Belgium.
