Portugal and USA Eliminated from 2026 FIFA World Cup After Round of 16 Defeats

Portugal and the United States have been knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following disappointing Round of 16 defeats, ending both nations’ hopes of lifting the trophy.

The results also complete the elimination of all three tournament co-hosts, with the USA joining Canada and Mexico on the sidelines.

Spain Stuns Portugal in Stoppage Time

Portugal’s World Cup journey came to a heartbreaking end after a dramatic 1-0 defeat to Spain.

With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, Spanish substitute Mikel Merino struck in the 91st minute to seal victory and send Spain through to the quarter-finals.

The defeat also marked the end of 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career on the international stage.

Following the loss, Portugal manager Roberto Martínez announced his immediate resignation.

Belgium Ends USA’s World Cup Dream

The United States also exited the tournament after suffering a comprehensive 4-1 defeat to Belgium in Seattle.

Malik Tillman gave the home side hope with a first-half equaliser, but Belgium capitalised on defensive mistakes to take control of the match.

Charles De Ketelaere scored twice as Belgium produced a clinical attacking display to secure their place in the last eight.

With the USA’s elimination, all three host nations, the United States, Canada and Mexico, have now been knocked out of the competition.

Quarter-Final Confirmed

Spain and Belgium will now meet in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals in Los Angeles as both teams continue their pursuit of the 2026 title.

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