The Iberian derby was tense and cagey, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert. Portugal relied on Diogo Costa’s saves to stay in the match, while Spain’s midfield, led by Rodri, controlled possession.
Portugal’s record in the World Cup is two wins, two draws, and one loss, while Spain’s record is four wins and one draw.
The breakthrough finally came in the 91st minute when substitute Ferran Torres combined with Mikel Merino, who finished low into the corner to spark Spanish celebrations, Softfootball gathered.
The substitute duo Ferran Torres and Mikel Merino linked up for the goal, and the midfielder finished low near the post to give Spain the crucial win that sees them in the quarterfinals.
Spain will now face the winner of USA vs Belgium in the quarterfinals.
Player Ratings
Portugal
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| Diogo Costa | 8 |
| Nuno Mendes | 7 |
| Renato Viega | 6 |
| Rúben Dias | 7 |
| João Cancelo | 6 |
| Vitinha | 6 |
| João Neves | 7 |
| Bruno Fernandes | 6 |
| João Félix | 7 |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 6 |
| Pedro Neto | 6 |
| Subs: Nélson Semedo (5), Diogo Dalot (5), Rafael Leão (6), Bernardo Silva (5), Francisco Conceição (5) |
Spain
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| Unai Simón | 7 |
| Marc Cucurella | 6 |
| Aymeric Laporte | 6 |
| Pau Cubarsí | 6 |
| Pedro Porro | 7 |
| Pedri | 6 |
| Rodri | 8 (Man of the Match) |
| Dani Olmo | 6 |
| Álex Baena | 6 |
| Mikel Oyarzabal | 6 |
| Lamine Yamal | 7 |
| Subs: Ferran Torres (7), Fabián Ruiz (6), Mikel Merino (7 – Goalscorer) |
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Spain | Portugal |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 57% | 43% |
| Total Shots | 14 | 9 |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 3 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.48 | 0.92 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 14 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 2 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Saves | 3 | 5 |
