Episode Details

In a dramatic twist, Mikel Merino scored the game-winner in the first minute of second-half stoppage time, sealing a 1-0 victory for Spain over Portugal and ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey. The substitute’s stunning goal—born from a quick, precise sequence—marked his first World Cup strike and his 11th for Spain. With this win, Spain extends their unbeaten run to 35 games and advances to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2010, set to face either the U.S. or Belgium. Merino, who battled back from foot surgery, delivered a moment of pure magic in a tense, historic rivalry match. Ronaldo, despite a quiet game and a record-breaking international career, leaves the tournament without a World Cup title, while Spain’s goalkeeper kept a clean sheet. The result echoes past epic clashes between the Iberian neighbors, including a legendary 3-3 draw eight years ago.

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