Goal Timeline & Key Minutes
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45th Minute: A heavily contested, physical first half came to a close with both sides locked at 0-0, characterized by strong defensive shapes and limited clear-cut scoring opportunities.
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55th Minute: Portugal initiated the first chess move of the second half, bringing on full-back Nélson Semedo to replace an injured Nuno Mendes.
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70th Minute: Seeking an offensive spark, Portugal introduced winger Rafael Leão to the fray, replacing João Félix.
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84th Minute: Spain adjusted their midfield structure for the final phase of regulation, bringing on Mikel Merino to inject fresh energy into the central channels.
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90+1 Minute: The decisive breakthrough arrived just seconds into stoppage time. Following a quickly taken free kick that caught the Portuguese defense off-guard, Ferran Torres slipped a clever ball down the inside-left channel, releasing Mikel Merino, who calmly slotted a low shot into the bottom corner.=
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90+6 Minute: Portugal missed a golden opportunity to force extra time when a deep cross found Bernardo Silva, who headed over the bar from point-blank range.
Tournament Impact
With this victory, Spain successfully advances to the quarter-finals, setting up a blockbuster final-eight encounter against Belgium. Notably, the victory extends Spain’s incredible defensive streak, having reached the quarter-final stage without conceding a single goal in the tournament. For Portugal, the narrow defeat marks a heartbreaking conclusion to their tournament journey.