Martinez steps down as Portugal coach after Merino's late goal ends World Cup 2026 campaign

Roberto Martinez resigned as Portugal head coach on Monday after a 1-0 defeat to Spain eliminated his side in the round of 16 at World Cup 2026, with the Belgian admitting it “does not make sense” to continue following the loss in Dallas.

Substitute Mikel Merino settled a tame all-Iberian contest by scoring in the first minute of added time, his goal the only moment of genuine quality in a match that offered little for either set of supporters. Portugal failed to threaten a Spain defence that has yet to concede in the tournament, and Cristiano Ronaldo — who remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes — was again largely anonymous.

Martinez, whose contract was due to expire at the end of the tournament, said no decision about his future had been made before the match. The defeat, however, proved decisive.

“It’s the end of the cycle,” Martinez said in his post-match press conference. “It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader. I take with myself the memories, and hope that Portugal has good memories in the three and a half years I was head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life.”

He added: “It had not been decided previously that I would leave after the tournament. I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and because I did not win, it does not make sense to continue.”

Playmaker Bruno Fernandes echoed the disappointment, saying the squad was “not at our best level” and criticising the “same mistakes” that resurfaced during a tight second half in which neither side carved out clear chances.

The defeat also raises questions about the direction of the national team as Portugal potentially enter a post-Ronaldo era, with the 40-year-old’s international future now uncertain following another subdued display on the biggest stage.

Spain, meanwhile, advance to a quarter-final against the winners of USA and Belgium. Midfielder Rodri, who was involved in a terse exchange with former Manchester City teammate Bernardo Silva late in the match, urged his side not to become complacent despite the victory.

“We knew Portugal would defend deep,” Rodri said. “Both teams were evenly matched and very focused on keeping possession. In the end, we took our chance and decided the match. But we can’t rest on our laurels yet.”

A potential semi-final against France awaits Spain should they overcome their quarter-final opponents.