Maxline Vitebsk Overview

Substitute Mikel Merino scored a late winner as Spain edged Portugal 1-0 in an unexpectedly drab World Cup round-of-16 clash on Monday. The Arsenal midfielder was introduced in the 85th minute and won the game in the 91st with a tidy finish that was just about deserved. La Roja were ineffective for long stretches, and created little, but Merino proved to be the difference-maker.

Croatia have submitted a formal complaint to FIFA following their dramatic exit from the World Cup at the hands of Portugal. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has cited a perceived "abuse of technology" during a critical moment in the match that saw them eliminated from the tournament.

Cameroon legend Roger Milla has delivered a fascinating verdict on the enduring brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as they continue to defy biological limits at the 2026 World Cup. The man who famously holds the record for the oldest scorer in tournament history has admitted that while playing until 50 remains unrealistic, he is ready to see his historic milestone surpassed by the two modern icons.

Luis de la Fuente has admitted he would prefer not to see Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch when Spain face Portugal in a titanic 2026 World Cup round of 16 clash. The La Roja boss believes the 41-year-old remains a match-winning threat despite his veteran status in what is expected to be a high-stakes Iberian derby.