Mikel Merino came off the bench and broke Portuguese hearts in stoppage time — substitute Ferran Torres slipped a quick ball into the box and Merino finished at the near post in the 90+1′ to send Spain into the Quarterfinals. Portugal struggled to impose themselves throughout, with Diogo Costa their standout performer producing a series of important saves. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, played every minute in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance but could not find the breakthrough against Spain’s organized defence. Roberto Martinez’s side never fully lived up to their billing as pre-tournament favourites. A tournament that promised so much ends with a whimper.