Portugal 0-1 Spain: Cristiano Ronaldo leaves pitch in tears as World Cup dream snuffed out for good | OneFootball

Mikel Merino scored late winner as La Roja edged past Selecao in last-16

Cristiano Ronaldo appeared emotional after Portugal were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup by Spain, snuffing out his dream of captaining his nation to global glory.

Mikel Merino scored the only goal of the match deep in second-half injury time, securing Spain’s progression after a cagey derby tie.

Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes at striker for the Selecao but took up a rather peripheral role, managing just three shots and 19 touches of the ball. Portugal as a whole only mustered two shots on target in the match.

He did come close to breaking the deadlock with a cheeky flicked effort, but Unai Simon was equal to it, making a dramatic, acrobatic stop.

Now 41 years old, Ronaldo had already confirmed this World Cup would be his last for Portugal, and his long-standing dream of achieving global domination with his nation has now been denied for good.

The legendary forward, best known for his spell at Real Madrid, appeared emotional at the full-time whistle as he calmly shook hands with the Spanish players and staff before making his way back to the Portugal changing room.

Tears flowed at full-time for Cristiano Ronaldo

AFP/Getty

Ronaldo had come under considerable criticism for his performances with the national team in recent weeks. Many fans took issue with his presence in the side and manager Roberto Martinez’s consistent decisions to name him in starting lineups.

Age has dulled his once lethal attacking instincts, and impressive substitute performances from Goncalo Ramos raised questions as to who should be starting at striker.

But this latest defeat sends Portugal into a new era without the great man in the side, and it remains to be seen whether Martinez will continue at the helm after another underwhelming campaign.

Spain, meanwhile, will continue their solemn march through the tournament as they return to the quarter-finals for the first time since they were crowned champions in 2010.