Key Takeaways
- Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football after playing his final game.
- Mikel Merino scored the winning goal for Spain in a 1-0 victory over Portugal.
- Spain will face Belgium in their next match following a 4-1 win against the United States.
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football's greatest ever players, has brought his international career to an end after playing his final game at the World Cup. The Portuguese forward confirmed he will retire from representing his country following Spain’s 1-0 victory over Portugal in their last group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The goal that sealed Spain's win came late in the match, with Mikel Merino scoring just before injury time to break the deadlock. This result ensured Spain continued their perfect run at the tournament and secured a place in the next round where they will face Belgium.
Portugal’s exit from the competition marks the end of Ronaldo’s participation in World Cups, as he has now played in four consecutive editions since 2014. The 39-year-old had previously stated his intention to retire after this tournament, and his final match saw him play alongside a younger generation of Portuguese players.
Following their victory over Spain, the United States faced controversy when FIFA reversed a refereeing decision ahead of their match against Belgium at the request of US President Donald Trump. The reversal led to a 4-1 win for Belgium, which further highlighted the political influence in international football.
Spain’s performance in this World Cup has been impressive, with Rudi Garcia's side demonstrating strong form and tactical discipline throughout the group stages. Their victory over Portugal was particularly significant as it secured their place in the knockout rounds of the tournament.
The next challenge for Spain will be a tough encounter against Belgium, who have shown resilience and skill in previous matches. The match is set to take place on 10 July at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where both teams will aim to secure their progression to the quarter-finals.
Ronaldo’s retirement from international football leaves a void that many fans and players will struggle to fill. His impact on the sport has been immense, and his final match was watched by millions around the world who celebrated his achievements with him.
