A blockbuster World Cup knockout game sees Portugal take on Spain tonight, as Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of lifting this elusive trophy reaches a critical juncture.
Ronaldo’s game time at this tournament has been a huge talking point, with the 41-year-old appearing to hamper Portugal at times, but he has scored three goals – including a crucial penalty in a dramatic last-32 win over Croatia.
That 2-1 victory has brought Roberto Martinez’s side into the last 16, where Spain await, having seen off Austria 3-0 with a clinical performance in the last round.
That result only enhanced feelings that Spain, the European champions, are one of the absolute favourites to go all the way in North America, but Portugal will surely put up a hell of a fight in Dallas, Texas.
Follow all the action from the World Cup last-16 tie, below:
Portugal 0-0 Spain
54’ – A big worry for Portugal now because Mendes is down and requiring physio treatment.
Portugal 0-0 Spain
52’ – Yamal has gotten precious little change from Mendes but he gets past him now and sends a low cross in that Portugal do well to clear.
Portugal 0-0 Spain
50’ – Cucurella tries to join a Spain attack but when it breaks down he has left a huge space for Neto to attack down Portugal’s right. But his cross for Fernandes is struck too firmly and it heads out for a throw-in.
Portugal 0-0 Spain
49’ – Fernandes sends the free kick that follows straight into Simon’s hands.
Portugal 0-0 Spain
48’ – Ronaldo purchases a smart/cheap foul from Olmo.
Half-time! Portugal 0-0 Spain
It’s not been amazing. File it under interesting and intriguing.
Portugal 0-0 Spain
48’ – Olmo is fouled about 35 yards out. Baena cross deep, Rodri nods it back towards goal but the whistle goes for offside.
