In a tightly contested World Cup clash, Spain secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Portugal in their last-16 encounter, sending the Portuguese side to an early exit.The match, held in a high-stakes atmosphere, saw both teams showcase their attacking prowess and defensive resilience.

Cristiano Ronaldo, making his final appearance at the World Cup, delivered a mixed performance, contributing a goal but also facing criticism for his lack of impact in key moments.Spain's late winner, scored by Mikel Merino in stoppage time, proved decisive, with the assist coming from Ferran Torres.

The victory highlighted Spain's tactical discipline and clinical finishing, while Portugal's reliance on Ronaldo's experience was evident.

Player ratings reflected the match's intensity, with Spain's midfield and forwards excelling, while Portugal's defenders and full-backs struggled under pressure.The result underscores the competitive nature of Group B and sets the stage for the next round of fixtures.

The match also drew attention to the emotional weight of Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance, adding a layer of narrative to an already dramatic encounter.