The penultimate day of the 2026 World Cup's round of 16 concluded on Monday with Spain advancing past Portugal 1-0 in Dallas, and Belgium thrashing the United States 4-1 in Seattle, nearly completing the lineup of the top eight teams.
At the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, the Iberian showdown was a tight affair with few chances. Spain controlled possession against a defensive Portuguese side relying on counterattacks. The decisive moment came when Mikel Merino capitalized on one of the rare clear opportunities to secure victory for Spain.
An intriguing individual battle unfolded between Lamine Yamal and Nuno Mendes, though the Portuguese left-back exited injured and the young Spanish forward struggled to replicate his earlier performances.
This defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey. Amid tears, Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 tournament was his final appearance on this stage, closing a 20-year World Cup career that began in Germany 2006, amassing 27 matches and 11 goals.
"I'm sad to leave the World Cup like this. As I mentioned before, I've given my all, and I leave with a clear conscience," the 41-year-old Portuguese star expressed.
Ronaldo further added, "This is the life of a footballer. You have to move on. Yes, this was my last World Cup. But there’s time to reflect, spend time with my family, and avoid making impulsive statements."
Meanwhile, Belgium left no room for surprise at Lumen Field in Seattle, dominating the American team from start to finish. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, with Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku completing the rout under the guidance of coach Domenico Tedesco.
The United States, buoyed by their Group D lead and a win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the previous round, failed to counter Belgium's offensive strength and exited the tournament on home soil. This victory also meant Belgium eliminated all three host nations—United States, Mexico, and Canada—none of which reached the quarterfinals.
Spain entered the tournament as the reigning Euro 2024 champions and had previously defeated Austria 3-0, keeping a clean sheet. Belgium, on the other hand, had staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal, overturning a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2 after extra time.
Spain and Belgium are set to face off in one of the most anticipated quarterfinal matchups on Friday, July 10, at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with broadcasts available on DAZN in Spain and FOX in the United States.
Key Insights on Spain and Belgium's World Cup Journey
How did Spain secure their victory over Portugal?
Spain dominated possession and scored the only goal through Mikel Merino, capitalizing on one of the few clear chances against a counterattacking Portuguese side.
What was the significance of Cristiano Ronaldo's last World Cup?
Cristiano Ronaldo's last World Cup marked the end of a 20-year career on this stage, where he played 27 matches and scored 11 goals, beginning his journey in Germany 2006.
How did Belgium overpower the United States?
Belgium outclassed the United States with a strong offensive display, led by Charles De Ketelaere's two goals, and further strikes from Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku.
What is the next step for Spain and Belgium in the World Cup?
Spain and Belgium will meet in the quarterfinals on July 10 at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, a match anticipated to be highly competitive and exciting.