Dallas, July 07 (QNA) – Spain advanced to the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup after defeating Portugal 1-0 today in their Round of 16 match in Dallas.

Spain owed its victory to Mikel Merino, who scored the only goal of the match in first-half stoppage time (90+1) to keep his country’s hopes of winning the title alive.

The two teams played a cautious match with few clear-cut chances. Both coaches adopted disciplined tactical approaches that limited opportunities throughout most of the contest. In the closing moments, substitute Mikel Merino scored the winner after being set up by fellow substitute Ferran Torres, who played him through on goal.

After conceding, Portugal pushed for an equalizer and created two headed chances from crosses, but neither resulted in a goal, sending Portugal out of the tournament.

Spain will face the winner of the later Round of 16 match between the United States men’s national soccer team and the Belgium national football team in the quarterfinals. (QNA)