Portugal 0-1 Spain: Nuno Mendes hits the crossbar – World Cup 2026 highlights

In the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match, Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain at the stadium in Dallas, and one of the key moments of the game was Nuno Mendes' shot hitting the crossbar in the 41st minute. The Iberian derby attracted 70,649 spectators and was decided by Mikel Merino's goal in stoppage time, on the first added minute. Portuguese defender Nuno Mendes, after a corner kick routine, unleashed a powerful left-footed shot, but the ball deflected off a defender and struck the crossbar of Unai Simon's goal, allowing Spain to clear the ball. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez called this moment decisive, stating that his team deserved extra time, but the ball just didn't go in. According to statistics, Spain had 15 shots compared to Portugal's 8, including 6-2 in shots on target, and had 48 percent possession against 39 percent for the opposition. For Cristiano Ronaldo, this match became his last at the World Cup — after the final whistle, the 41-year-old forward could not hold back his tears. Portugal failed to capitalize on their crossbar moment, which ultimately cost them a place in the quarter-finals, where Spain will continue their title bid.

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