Portugal have crashed out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain.

A dramatic stoppage-time goal from substitute Mikel Merino secured Spain’s place in the quarter-finals and ended Portugal’s hopes of lifting the coveted trophy.

The loss also signals the closing chapter of an illustrious international career for Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently announced that the 2026 World Cup would be his final major tournament with the Portuguese national team before retiring from international football.

Ronaldo leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having captained Portugal to victory at the UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League Finals. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also departs as Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, achievements that have cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

While Portugal’s World Cup journey has come to an end, Ronaldo’s impact on the national team and world football will remain enduring long after his final appearance on the international stage.