Spain send Portugal out as USMNT prepare for Belgium test

Spain are through at Portugal’s expense after Mikel Merino scored in second-half stoppage time in Arlington, Texas. The result ends Portugal’s World Cup run and closes Cristiano Ronaldo’s final tournament appearance, according to his earlier announcement.

The focus now shifts to Seattle, where the United States men’s national team are scheduled to face Belgium at 8 p.m. ET. Folarin Balogun is available for the USMNT after his suspension was lifted, giving the hosts an important attacking option for a high-pressure knockout match.

With quarterfinal places being claimed quickly, the tournament is entering a stage where single moments are defining entire campaigns. Spain’s late breakthrough underlines how narrow the margins have become, while the United States’ meeting with Belgium offers another major test of depth, discipline and composure.

For editors, the central storyline is the contrast between one era potentially ending for Ronaldo and another opportunity opening for the USMNT on home soil. Further verification from match reports or official tournament updates would strengthen any expanded coverage.