Mikel Merino came off the bench to score an injury-time winner for Spa

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Spain had failed to create clear-cut openings in a poor second half before Ferran Torres played in the Arsenal midfielder, who slotted low past goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the 91st minute.

 

The 1-0 result was a repeat of their meeting at the same stage in 2010 and sets up a quarter-final tie with Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday, 10 July (20:00 BST).

 

Portugal's defeat also ends 41-year-old Ronaldo's World Cup career after the superstar confirmed this tournament would be his last.

 

Spain squandered a gilt-edged chance after just three minutes as Dani Olmo's pass helped Mikel Oyarzabal get behind the defence, but the Real Sociedad striker dragged his effort wide.

 

Costa then produced a double save to deny Spanish duo Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena in quick succession as La Roja probed for an opener, but it was Portugal who went closest next.