Spain left it late to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, with Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time winner proving the difference in a tightly contested Round of 16 clash.
The match appeared destined for extra time after an uneventful first half and a cagey second period, but Spain’s persistence finally paid off in the 90+1st minute when Merino found the breakthrough to send his side into the quarter-finals.
Spain controlled possession for much of the contest, finishing with 58 percent of the ball compared to Portugal’s 42 percent. The Spaniards also carried the greater attacking threat, recording 15 shots to Portugal’s eight while completing 530 passes against their opponents’ 419.
Despite Spain’s dominance, clear-cut opportunities were at a premium. Portugal came closest to opening the scoring in the 42nd minute when Mendez unleashed a powerful effort that took a deflection off Pedro Porro before crashing against the goalpost, much to Spain’s relief.
The second half followed a similar script, with Spain dictating possession while Portugal remained disciplined defensively and looked to strike on the counterattack. As the clock ticked into six minutes of added time signaled by the referee, the encounter seemed set for an additional 30 minutes.
However, Spain delivered the decisive blow almost immediately into stoppage time. Mikel Merino scored in the 90+1st minute, finding the back of the net to break Portuguese hearts and seal a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
The late winner ensured Spain’s control of the game was rewarded, while Portugal’s resilient defensive display ultimately ended in disappointment after coming within moments of forcing extra time.
