Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, has backed Spain to reach the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his side’s elimination from the tournament.
Portugal crashed out of the competition after a 1-0 defeat to Spain in their Round of 16 clash.
With the match seemingly destined for extra time, substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic late winner to seal Spain’s place in the quarter-finals.
Reacting after the match, Ronaldo praised the Spanish side, describing them as one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
“We played a good game, the performance was well done,” Ronaldo told reporters.
“We could have done better but Spain are among the best, they will get to the final or close.”
Spain will now take on Belgium in the quarter-finals as they continue their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title.
