Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Spain through to the World Cup quarterfinals as they eliminated their Iberian neighbors, Portugal, in a breathless encounter.
In a match that seemed destined for extra time, Merino turned hero at the death, capitalising on a late defensive lapse to secure a narrow 1-0 victory for La Roja.
The last-gasp strike sparked wild celebrations from the Spanish bench, leaving Portuguese hearts broken in the tournament’s knockout drama.
With this monumental victory, La Roja have reached the quarterfinals for the first time since winning the tournament back in 2010.
The historic triumph officially breaks a 16-year quarterfinal drought, breathing fresh life into Spain’s campaign and reaffirming their status as genuine title contenders.
The former world champions will now shift their focus to California, where a heavyweight clash awaits them in Los Angeles this coming Friday.
Spain’s opponent was decided just hours later as Belgium comfortably defeated tournament co-hosts, the United States of America, with a commanding 4-1 victory.
The European giants put on a clinical display of attacking football to silence a passionate home crowd.
Charles De Ketelaere was the star of the opening 45 minutes, netting a brilliant first-half brace to put the Red Devils in complete control of the tie.
The United States did manage to briefly fight their way back into the contest when Malik Tillman scored in the first half to restore parity following Belgium’s opening goal.
Ahead of kickoff, the biggest talking point had been Folarin Balogun’s controversial inclusion in the American starting lineup despite receiving a red card in his previous match.
However, any hopes of a historic US comeback were swiftly erased as Belgium’s powerhouse center-forwards completely stole the show.
Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku both found the back of the net in the second half to finish the job, ruthlessly putting the game out of reach for the Americans.
The dominant Red Devils will now march on to face a revitalized Spanish side in the quarterfinals.
It sets up a mouthwatering all-European showdown in Los Angeles, with both nations just three wins away from football’s ultimate prize.
