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Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey concludes as Portugal falls to Spain

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 9:52 PM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey concludes as Portugal falls to Spain

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career comes to an emotional end as Portugal loses 1-0 to Spain in Dallas during the round-of-16 match. Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal for Spain, continuing their impressive unbeaten streak to 35 matches. Ronaldo, now 41, struggled to influence the game, prompting questions about Portugal's reliance on their veteran star. The match marked a potential turning point for Portugal as Roberto Martinez, under scrutiny for his management decisions, faces criticism for his handling of the team. Spain advances to face the winner of the upcoming USA vs. Belgium match.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mikel Merino scores the lone goal for Spain in the 1-0 victory.
•Ronaldo's performance has been criticized, seen as a hindrance to the team.
•Spain extends their unbeaten streak to 35 matches.
•Roberto Martinez faces backlash for tactical decisions during the tournament.
•Spain will play the winner of USA vs. Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Latest Updates

9:52 PMYahoo Sports — Tearful Ronaldo a passenger as World Cup dream slips away

What they're saying

"
When the end finally came for Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup dream, he was as powerless to prevent it as any of the 70,000 spectators in the stands here in Dallas. Ronaldo has spent two decades shaping matches and determining outcomes but here he was peripheral, almost to the point of absence, as Spain claimed a dramatic round-of-16 victory.
— Yahoo Sports

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