Spain eliminate rival Portugal in Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup exit
Spain's Ferran Torres, Mikel Merino and Rodri celebrate after the match as Spain qualify for the quarter finals of the World Cup as Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo looks dejected after the match as Portugal are eliminated from the World Cup.
Substitute Mikel Merino scored in the first minute of second-half stoppage time to lift Spain into the World Cup quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over Portugal in Monday's round of 16 clash in Arlington, Texas.
Merino's goal six minutes after his insertion takes La Roja to their first quarterfinals since winning their only World Cup title in 2010. They will next play Friday in Inglewood, Calif., against Belgium, a 4-1 winner against the United States later Monday.
